Q: I have been wearing my platinum ring everyday since I bought it a year ago. My ring now is no longer as sparkling as when I first bought it. Do you have any suggestion on how to clean it, and is it safe if I just bring it to any jewellery store for them to clean?

- by Chui Peng

A: If your platinum ring is set with diamonds only, and no other type of stones, then it is quite safe to bring it to a jeweller for cleaning. However, please bring to a trusted jeweller, and if possible, do not let the ring out of your sight. If your ring has other coloured gemstones, then the jeweller would have to know how to handle such stones as they are very fragile.

You can also take some simple steps at home, to look after the sparkle of your ring:-
1. If possible, remove it when bathing and doing house work such as washing or cleaning.
2. You can clean the ring at home by soaking it in warm water with a little bit of liquid soap. Then use a very soft brush to gently clean the ring. Finally, rinse it with some clean water and wipe dry.

That should help improve the look of your ring.
 

Q: I am looking around to buy a 1 carat diamond for my engagement ring. What is a good colour and clarity to buy, and how do I ensure that I get a good deal?

- by Julia

A: What colour and clarity you buy will depend on your preferences and of course, your budget as well. We would advise you to always shop around and compare several jewellers before you make a decision, as this ring will be with you for a long time, so you should take into consideration the prices, quality, craftsmanship, reputation of the jeweller, and the services provided by each jeweller as well.
 

Q: I’ve always had my heart set on a platinum wedding ring, but my budget-conscious fiancé is trying to convince me to settle for a white gold ring, as he says there is no difference in looks and it is much cheaper. Is there really any difference, and is it worthwhile to pay so much more for platinum?

- by Grace

A: If you can afford it without blowing your budget, our opinion is that platinum should always be the metal of choice for wedding rings, as it is harder and purer than gold. The advantages of this is that it will not wear thin over the years (remember, you will be wearing this everyday for the rest of your life!) and platinum’s purity will ensure that it stays the same colour and not tarnish, like how white gold will. However if you are on a tight budget, 18k white gold is a good choice since it looks similar and is quite hard too. To maintain its shiny white lustre, you just need to bring it back to OE regularly for reconditioning. (We recommend at least twice a year)