This is going to be a fun assignment. I am on my way to meet Seema Mehta, Creative Director of Kirtilals, the diamond people since 1939. We are meeting at the huge and glittery Kirtilals showroom on Crosscut Road. I step in and am swamped by the sight and unmistakeable smell of luxury. I am politely asked what I want and when I say I have to see Ms Mehta, I am ushered in. I would love to stand and gape, but Seema is waiting to tell me about how to clean diamonds.
That’s right. There are a few tips, simple ones that will keep your diamonds sparkling for years to come.
The tips go a long way in ensuring your diamonds stay shiny. I make my way back home determined to give my one-and-a-half diamonds some tender loving care.
Kirtilals will also clean your diamonds. While you are there, check out their Go and Glow line of jewellery. It is for the young and trendy. The pieces are light, intricately crafted, modern and international in design.
TIPS
Never remove your earrings over a sink or in the bathroom! It is almost certain that you will drop them and chances of their going down the drain are very good. Sit down and remove them patiently
Remember to remove your diamonds before you oil your hair or go in for a facial or a massage
Avoid touching the surface of the diamond. Always hold it on its sides or from the back. Otherwise the grease and grime dulls its shine. This is especially true for solitaires
Wrap your precious baubles in cloth and store them in hard boxes so that they do not bend and snap (especially the semi-flexible necklaces and bracelets). Do NOT use tissue to wrap your jewellery. The fuzz could dim the shine
Cleaning diamond jewellery
Put a spoonful of dishwashing liquid soap in water and put it to boil
Carefully place your diamonds into the hot water and allow to stand for two to three minutes
Remove the diamonds from the water (careful as they will be hot)
With a toothbrush gently scrub the pieces
Rinse thoroughly in clean room-temperature water
Dip it in any alcohol if you have it. This will take care of any remaining dirt on the piece
Dry with a soft cloth and put away (ensure the alcohol has evaporated entirely)
You can do the same for rubies and sapphires
NOTE: Solitaires should be cleaned at least once a month
Do not put emeralds in hot water as the stone may crack.
