How Do I Remove Scratches from Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are subjected to scratches and chips due to prolonged usage, just like natural diamonds. If you've noticed surface damage on your lab-grown diamond, here's a comprehensive guide to scratch removal and keeping your diamond sparkling.
Understanding Diamond Scratches
Not every blemish is a permanent scratch. Many apparent scratches are just dirt, oil from your skin, or soap residue. After thoroughly cleaning your diamond, you may decide whether professional help is needed.
Simple Cleaning Solutions
Start with basic cleaning: mix warm water with mild dish soap and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. This can surprisingly remove very fine marks. For stubborn dirt, soak in soapy water for 10-15 minutes before brushing. Commercial jewelry cleaning solutions designed for diamonds are also effective. Always use soft brushes or cloths – abrasive materials create additional problems.
Professional Polishing
If cleaning doesn't remove the scratches, professional polishing is most effective. Jewelers use professional-quality compounds to gently rub the surface, smoothing scratches and restoring sparkle. The procedure is done with understanding of the diamond's facets, so cut and clarity are not compromised. Most jewelers can complete this in just a few days.
What About Deep Scratches?
For deeper scratches, a jeweler may suggest recutting and repolishing. This reshapes the diamond to remove damage but causes some weight loss and may lessen its value. This is only done in rare cases of serious damage.
Prevention: The Best Approach
- Store safely: Soft pouch or lined jewelry box, away from other jewelry
- Avoid abrasive activities: Remove before household chores, exercising, or gardening
- Clean regularly: Frequent gentle cleaning helps spot scratches early
- Annual inspection: Visit a jeweler yearly for professional inspection and cleaning
- Choose protective settings: Bezel settings offer more protection than solitaire or tension settings
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Different?
Lab-grown diamonds do not scratch more often than mined ones. They share the same physical structure, both rating 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Both types require the same care and maintenance.
The Bottom Line
Light surface scratches can usually be removed through cleaning or professional polishing. When in doubt, consult with a professional jeweler at Luxica Jewels who can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.