Can Diamond Rings Get Wet?
When it comes to fine jewelry, few questions are as common—or as important—as this one:
Can diamond rings get wet?
At Ganem Jewelers, we hear it from discerning clients every day. The answer depends on what kind of “wet” we’re talking about. While diamonds themselves are incredibly durable, the rest of your ring—the metal, the setting, and any additional gemstones—responds differently to moisture and daily exposure.
Understanding how water interacts with your ring helps preserve its brilliance, integrity, and sentimental value for years to come.
The Short Answer: Yes, but Not Always Safely
A diamond won’t be harmed by pure water—it’s one of the hardest natural materials on Earth. However, the ring as a whole is a combination of materials: precious metals, prongs, adhesives, and accent stones. Prolonged or repeated exposure to certain types of water can gradually affect them.
Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
Diamonds love sparkle—not soap, salt, or chlorine.
How Different Types of Water Affect Your Ring
1. Tap Water — Generally Safe in Moderation
Washing your hands or being caught in the rain won’t damage your diamond. Still, tap water often contains minerals that can leave residue, dulling the shine over time.
If your ring feels less brilliant after daily wear, it’s not the diamond—it’s the film left behind by soaps, lotions, or hard-water deposits.
Ganem Jeweler´s Tip:
After washing, pat your ring dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid letting moisture collect beneath the setting.
2. Saltwater — Risky for Metals and Settings
Saltwater poses more concern for the metal than for the diamond itself. Gold and platinum can corrode slightly in marine conditions, and salt crystals may work their way into tiny crevices. Over time, this may weaken prongs or loosen the setting.
If you’re heading to the beach, leave your ring safely at home—or tuck it away in a soft travel pouch.
3. Chlorinated Water — A Definite No
Chlorine is particularly harsh on precious metals such as gold and platinum, and even more so on white gold, where rhodium plating can deteriorate with exposure.
Pools and hot tubs also combine chlorine with heat, making the reaction faster and more aggressive.
Design Insight:
Even the most durable settings can lose their polish or develop micro-abrasions if exposed repeatedly to pool water. It’s best to remove your ring before swimming or soaking.
4. Showering or Cleaning — Hidden Residues
Daily showers expose your ring to shampoos, conditioners, and cleansers that can coat your diamond with residue, making it appear dull.
Additionally, household cleaning solutions often contain chemicals that interact with metals.
From the Jeweler’s Bench:
We’ve restored countless engagement rings that only needed professional cleaning. Regular inspections help maintain both beauty and structure—something our in-house specialists are happy to provide.
Why Water Can Still Matter: The Craftsmanship Behind the Ring
Every Ganem Jewelers diamond ring represents a marriage of precision and artistry. The diamond may resist water effortlessly, but the metalwork is a living sculpture—delicate, hand-set, and meticulously polished.
When moisture seeps into hidden areas, it can cause:
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Oxidation in certain alloys
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Residue buildup beneath the stone
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Microscopic shifting in older or thinner settings
This is why routine professional cleaning and inspection are crucial. They preserve not just the sparkle, but the security of every stone.
Best Practices for Caring for Your Diamond Ring
Keep your diamond shining bright with a few mindful habits:
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Remove before swimming or cleaning. Chlorine, salt, and detergents are your ring’s quiet enemies.
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Clean gently at home. Use warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
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Schedule professional cleaning. Bring your ring to Ganem Jewelers every six months for inspection and ultrasonic cleaning.
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Store thoughtfully. Keep it in a fabric-lined jewelry box or soft pouch to prevent scratching.
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Handle carefully. Hold your ring by the band—not the diamond—to minimize oils and smudges.
Can Moisture Damage the Setting?
Over time, yes—especially if water exposure is frequent. Settings that use small prongs, micro-pavé, or invisible mounts are more sensitive. Moisture can cause gradual loosening or discoloration in the crevices.
That’s why experienced jewelers recommend regular evaluations. During an inspection, our Ganem Jewelers gemologists check for movement in the diamond, polish worn areas, and ensure prongs are intact.
When to Remove Your Ring
While your ring was designed to be worn daily, there are moments when taking it off is the best way to protect it.
You should remove your diamond ring when:
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Swimming in pools, oceans, or hot tubs
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Cleaning with household chemicals
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Applying lotions or perfumes
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Exercising, gardening, or cooking with your hands submerged
Expert’s Note:
Your diamond’s brilliance should last a lifetime—protecting the setting ensures it does.
Professional Care at Ganem Jewelers
Ganem Jewelers offers complimentary cleaning and inspection for all customers, ensuring that your diamond ring remains as radiant as the day you received it.
Our certified gemologists and skilled technicians use ultrasonic and steam systems that safely remove buildup while preserving the integrity of each setting.
We also offer:
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Ring Resizing and Prong Repair
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Stone Replacement
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Custom Redesigns for heirloom diamonds
Each service is performed with the precision that has defined Ganem’s craftsmanship since 1982.
Final Thought: Diamonds Endure, But Care Preserves
Your diamond can handle life’s everyday moments—but how you care for it ensures that it continues to symbolize everything it was meant to: love, strength, and lasting beauty.
At Ganem Jewelers, our legacy is built on helping you preserve yours. Whether you need professional cleaning, a routine inspection, or guidance on protecting your ring, our Scottsdale and Ahwatukee teams are here to assist with expertise you can trust.
Visit Ganem Jewelers
Scottsdale Location
Gainey Ranch Shops, 7704 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, #110, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Ahwatukee Location
4910 E Chandler Blvd, #6, Phoenix, AZ 85048
Call: (480) 820-1122
