How much does it cost to get a custom piece of jewelry made?

Pricing varies based on materials and complexity, but we’ll give you a clear quote upfront. Simple designs can start at a few hundred dollars.

Is custom jewelry cheaper?

Not usually. But the value is in wearing something that lasts and actually means something. Over time, the cost per wear often makes custom pieces more worthwhile than mass-produced ones.

How long does custom jewelry take to make?

On average, 4 to 8 weeks. Some pieces take more time, especially if they’re complex or require rare materials. We’ll let you know early on what to expect.

How do you know if a jeweler is good?

Trust your instincts, but also check credentials, client reviews, and how well they explain things. A good jeweler won’t rush you; they’ll guide you.

Jun 09, 2026

Caring for Your Lab Grown Diamond Jewelry: Maintenance Tips from Expert Jewelers

Polishing a silver diamond ring with a soft cloth.

Key Takeaways

Lab grown diamonds possess identical physical and chemical properties to natural diamonds, requiring similar care.
Regular home cleaning with mild solutions and soft brushes maintains brilliance.
Proper storage prevents scratches and damage from other jewelry.
Professional inspection every 6-12 months is recommended for structural integrity and deep cleaning.
Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and abrasive materials in contact with your diamond jewelry.

The acquisition of a lab grown diamond represents a significant personal investment and a symbol of enduring value. While these diamonds share the identical chemical, physical, and optical properties of their mined counterparts, understanding specific lab grown diamond care protocols is fundamental to preserving their brilliance and structural integrity over time. This comprehensive guide, prepared by the expert jewelers at Van Drake Jewelers, provides authoritative maintenance tips designed to keep your cherished pieces in impeccable condition. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge necessary for diligent diamond jewelry maintenance, ensuring your lab grown diamonds retain their captivating sparkle for generations.

Diamond necklace, gold ring, and matching stud earrings.

Understanding Your Lab Grown Diamonds

Before discussing specific care regimens, it is beneficial to understand the nature of lab grown diamonds. This foundational knowledge will reinforce the importance of consistent and appropriate maintenance.

Composition and Durability

Lab grown diamonds are cultivated in controlled environments using advanced technological processes that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form. Whether produced through High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods, the resulting material is pure carbon, arranged in a crystal lattice structure identical to that of natural diamonds. This molecular identity confers the same exceptional hardness – a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale – making them the hardest known natural or synthetic substance. This inherent durability means lab grown diamonds are highly resistant to scratching by most everyday materials.

However, durability does not equate to invincibility. While resistant to surface scratches, a diamond can still chip or fracture if subjected to a sharp impact against a hard surface, particularly along its cleavage planes. The settings in which diamonds are placed, often made of softer precious metals, are also susceptible to wear and damage. Therefore, comprehensive lab grown diamond care extends beyond the stone itself to the entire piece of jewelry.

Distinguishing Lab Grown from Natural Diamonds in Care

From a maintenance perspective, there is no practical distinction between caring for a lab grown diamond and a natural diamond. Their identical material properties necessitate the same approach to cleaning, storage, and professional inspection. Any advice applicable to natural diamonds concerning their physical handling, exposure to chemicals, or susceptibility to impact, applies equally to lab grown diamonds. The focus should remain on proper diamond jewelry maintenance for the entire piece.

Daily Practices for Lab Grown Diamond Jewelry

Consistent, gentle handling forms the bedrock of effective caring for synthetic diamonds. Incorporating these simple habits into your routine will significantly contribute to the longevity and brilliance of your jewelry.

Preventative Measures

Remove Jewelry During Manual Tasks: Prior to engaging in activities such as gardening, cleaning with harsh chemicals, cooking, exercising, or performing any strenuous manual labor, remove your lab grown diamond jewelry. This prevents direct impact, exposure to abrasive substances, and accumulation of grime.
Apply Cosmetics Before Jewelry: Lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and makeup can leave a residue on your diamond, dulling its sparkle and potentially accumulating in intricate settings. Apply these products and allow them to dry or settle before putting on your jewelry.
Avoid Contact with Chlorine and Bleach: These chemicals can damage or discolor the precious metals in which your diamonds are set. While diamonds themselves are impervious to these substances, the metal alloys are not. Remove jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools or using household cleaning products containing bleach.

Handle by the Metal Setting: When removing or putting on your jewelry, try to handle it by the metal band or setting rather than directly touching the diamond. This minimizes the transfer of natural skin oils, which can quickly dull the diamond's surface.

Dipping a pink gemstone ring into soapy water to clean.

Routine Cleaning of Lab Grown Diamonds

Regular cleaning lab diamonds at home is essential for maintaining their luster. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often the jewelry is worn and the wearer's lifestyle, but a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning is generally advisable for frequently worn pieces.

Materials Required for Home Cleaning

To perform an effective home cleaning, gather the following items:

Soft-bristled brush: An old, soft toothbrush (specifically designated for jewelry cleaning) is suitable.
Mild liquid soap: Dish soap that is free of dyes, perfumes, and moisturizers is ideal. Avoid antibacterial soaps, as they may contain ingredients that leave a film.
Warm water: Not hot, as extreme temperature changes can affect certain settings or stones.
Soft, lint-free cloth: A microfiber cloth or a specialized jewelry polishing cloth works well for drying.
Small bowl: To soak the jewelry.

Step-by-Step Home Cleaning Process

Follow these steps for safe and effective home cleaning:

Prepare the Solution: Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild liquid dish soap. Stir gently to create a soapy solution.
Soak the Jewelry: Carefully place your lab grown diamond jewelry into the solution. Allow it to soak for 20-40 minutes. This helps to loosen dirt, oils, and product residue that have accumulated on the diamond and its setting. For heavily soiled pieces, an overnight soak may be beneficial.
Gentle Scrubbing: After soaking, remove the jewelry from the bowl. Using the soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the diamond and its setting. Pay close attention to the underside of the diamond and any intricate areas where dirt tends to collect. Ensure you clean around the prongs and any open-back settings to allow light to enter and exit the diamond freely.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the jewelry under clean, warm running water. It is advisable to plug the drain or rinse over a second bowl to prevent accidental loss. Ensure all soap residue is completely removed.
Dry and Polish: Gently pat the jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. For maximum brilliance, you can allow it to air dry completely on a clean, soft surface. A final gentle buff with a microfiber cloth can help restore its sparkle.

Common Cleaning Agents to Avoid

Certain cleaning agents, while effective for other household items, can be detrimental to your lab grown diamond jewelry or its metal setting. Avoid using:

Abrasive Cleaners: Powders or pastes designed for scrubbing can scratch precious metals and potentially damage the diamond's surface if they contain abrasive particles.
Harsh Chemicals: Ammonia, bleach, chlorine, and acetone can corrode or discolor precious metals and may damage certain types of gemstones if present in multi-stone pieces.
Ultrasonic Cleaners (with caution): While professional ultrasonic cleaners are safe when used correctly, home versions can sometimes dislodge stones from their settings if the setting is loose or compromised. If you use one, inspect your jewelry carefully afterward. Van Drake Jewelers can provide professional ultrasonic cleaning and inspection.
Toothpaste: Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the metal setting of your jewelry.

Proper Storage for Lab Grown Diamond Jewelry

Appropriate storage is a critical aspect of diamond jewelry maintenance and protection. Improper storage can lead to scratches, tangles, and even breakage.

Selecting Storage Solutions

Individual Compartments: The most effective way to store diamond jewelry is in individual compartments within a jewelry box or a soft pouch. Diamonds can scratch other diamonds, as well as softer gemstones and precious metals.
Soft-Lined Jewelry Boxes: A jewelry box with a soft fabric lining (such as velvet or satin) provides a cushioned environment, preventing scratches and minimizing movement.
Fabric Pouches: For travel or temporary storage, individual soft fabric pouches offer good protection.
Airtight Containers (Optional): For silver jewelry, an airtight container can help prevent tarnishing. While not strictly necessary for diamonds, it can benefit multi-metal pieces.

Avoiding Storage Pitfalls

Do Not Pile Jewelry: Never pile your diamond jewelry together in a drawer or a single compartment. This is a common cause of scratches and tangles.
Keep Away from Heat and Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive heat can potentially affect certain treatments or materials in multi-stone pieces, though diamonds themselves are largely unaffected. Store jewelry in a cool, dry place.

Separate from Other Jewelry: Ensure lab grown diamonds are stored separately from all other jewelry, especially pieces containing other diamonds or softer gemstones like pearls or opals, which are easily scratched.

Gloved hands placing a diamond ring under a microscope.

Professional Maintenance and Inspection Schedules

While home care is fundamental, periodic professional maintenance from experienced jewelers, such as those at Van Drake Jewelers, is indispensable for the long-term health and beauty of your lab grown diamond jewelry. Our location in West St. Paul, MN. serves the community with expert service.

Benefits of Expert Inspection

Professional jewelers possess the specialized tools and expertise to perform a thorough evaluation that goes beyond what is possible with home care. Benefits include:

Detection of Loose Stones: Jewelers can identify loose prongs or settings before a diamond is lost.
Deep Cleaning: Professional equipment, such as ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, can remove stubborn dirt and grime from hard-to-reach areas, restoring maximum brilliance.
Structural Integrity Check: Jewelers assess the overall condition of the metal, looking for thinning, cracks, or signs of wear that could compromise the jewelry's structure.
Re-tipping and Re-shanking: If wear is detected, professional jewelers can perform necessary repairs like re-tipping prongs or re-shanking worn bands to extend the life of your piece.
Polishing and Rhodium Plating: White gold jewelry often benefits from periodic rhodium plating to restore its bright, white appearance. Jewelers can also polish away minor surface scratches from the metal.

Frequency of Professional Service

It is generally recommended to have your lab grown diamond jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned every 6 to 12 months, especially for engagement rings or pieces worn daily. This proactive approach helps to address minor issues before they escalate into significant problems.

What Professional Jewelers Assess

During a professional inspection, jewelers typically examine several key aspects:

Prong Condition: Each prong holding the diamond is inspected for wear, bending, or thinning.
Setting Security: The overall integrity of the setting is checked to ensure the diamond is held firmly.
Metal Wear: The band and other metal components are examined for signs of thinning, cracks, or deformation.
Diamond Surface: The diamond is checked for any new chips, abrasions, or unusual inclusions that might indicate damage.
Overall Cleanliness: The piece undergoes a thorough deep cleaning to remove all accumulated dirt and oils.

Do's and Don'ts of Lab Grown Diamond Care

Adhering to a clear set of guidelines will significantly aid in the preservation of your lab grown diamond jewelry.

Essential Do's

Do clean your jewelry regularly: Perform home cleaning weekly or bi-weekly for frequently worn pieces.
Do remove jewelry during strenuous activities: Protect your diamonds from impact and harsh environments.
Do store jewelry separately: Prevent scratches by keeping individual pieces apart in a soft-lined box or pouch.
Do have your jewelry professionally inspected: Schedule check-ups every 6-12 months with a trusted jeweler.
Do handle jewelry by its metal setting: Minimize transfer of skin oils to the diamond's surface.
Do use mild soap and warm water for home cleaning: This is the safest and most effective method.
Do dry your jewelry with a soft, lint-free cloth: Avoid air-drying in dusty environments.

Critical Don'ts

Don't expose diamonds to harsh chemicals: Avoid chlorine, bleach, ammonia, and acetone.
Don't wear jewelry during manual tasks: This includes gardening, cleaning, cooking, and exercising.
Don't use abrasive cleaners or toothpaste: These can scratch precious metals and dull the diamond.
Don't store multiple pieces of jewelry together: Diamonds can scratch other diamonds and softer metals.
Don't force a ring over a swollen finger: This can damage the ring or cause injury.
Don't attempt complex repairs yourself: Always seek professional assistance for structural damage or loose stones.
Don't ignore signs of wear: If you notice a loose stone or damaged setting, discontinue wearing the piece and contact us immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Grown Diamond Care

Are lab grown diamonds more fragile than natural diamonds?

No, lab grown diamonds are not more fragile. They possess the exact same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds, making them equally hard and durable. Their care requirements are identical.

Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner at home for my lab grown diamond jewelry?

Home ultrasonic cleaners can be used with caution. It is important to ensure your diamond is securely set before use, as vibrations can dislodge loose stones. For optimal safety and effectiveness, professional ultrasonic cleaning by a jeweler is generally preferred.

What should I do if my lab grown diamond looks dull even after cleaning?

If your lab grown diamond appears dull after home cleaning, it might indicate a buildup of stubborn residue that requires professional attention. It could also suggest a loose setting allowing dirt to accumulate underneath, or a need for professional polishing of the metal. A professional inspection will identify the cause.

How often should I have my lab grown diamond jewelry checked by a professional?

For frequently worn items like engagement rings, a professional inspection and cleaning every 6 to 12 months is highly recommended. For pieces worn less often, an annual check-up is usually sufficient.

Can I wear my lab grown diamond jewelry in the shower?

While water itself will not harm your diamond, showering with jewelry is generally not recommended. Soaps, shampoos, and conditioners can leave a film on your diamond, dulling its sparkle, and can also accumulate in settings, making them harder to clean. It also increases the risk of the jewelry slipping off and being lost down the drain.

Conclusion

Maintaining the brilliance and structural integrity of your lab grown diamond jewelry requires a combination of diligent home care and periodic professional attention. By adhering to practical cleaning instructions, implementing proper storage techniques, and following a regular schedule for expert inspections, you are actively preserving the beauty and value of your investment. The jewelers at Van Drake Jewelers are dedicated to providing the knowledge and services necessary to support you in this endeavor, ensuring your lab grown diamonds remain cherished symbols for many years to come.

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