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The Science There's a lot of science and research involved in growing diamonds; we’ll do our best to explain what we’ve learned. So without getting into the manufacturer's science and procedures (because that is all patented and proprietary information), here’s what we know about the science behind creating lab-grown diamonds. There are two types of processes used when growing a lab-created diamond. HPHT and CVD start with a carbon seed and use different methods to develop a diamond from that seed. CVD is short for Chemical Vapor Deposition . This means that a material is deposited from a gas onto a substrate (surface or material on or from which an organism lives or grows), and chemical reactions are involved which causes the Diamond to begin to grow. Growth is a very long process; on larger areas (less than 100cm2), diamond is usually deposited at growth rates between 0.1 and 10 microns per hour. To put that into perspective, the average piece of hair on your head is around 45 microns. So it's a very slow process and requires precisely controlled environments and gas levels to form a gem-quality diamond. HPHT is short for High-Pressure High Temperature. This process has a much more used history in the jewelry industry. Some larger companies started using this process in the 1940-the 50s to make diamonds but were never used or able to make gem-quality diamonds. HPHT uses a catalyst (carbon seed- pure carbon source); under the same environments (High-Pressure, High Temperature) that natural diamonds form, they grow a diamond. This process requires large machines to maintain the Pressure and Temperature needed for diamond growth.

The technology to manufacture lab-created diamonds that are identical in composition – so indistinguishable from natural diamonds - is here to stay. A Russian company, New Diamond Technologies , has produced the largest verified lab-created diamond – a high-quality 10 Ct stone. New Diamond Technologies claims that it can produce 15 Ct and 20 Ct polished stones, that they have produced a 70 Ct piece of lab-grown diamond rough, and suggest that 100 Ct lab-grown may be coming soon. The company says that the bigger diamonds are “really individual” as with comparable naturals. The cost of the technology to produce these stones is enormous, so the cost to the consumer is still very high – 80%-90% of the price of comparable natural diamonds. To put that in perspective, a high quality 10 Ct natural diamond (E Color and VVS2 clarity) would cost around $1,000,000 and $1,300,000. This lab-created stone would still cost around $800,000 to $1,170,000. The company’s “bread and butter” 1 Ct to 3 Ct stones are sold through companies in Europe, Hong Kong, and the US, but the company does not disclose the names of the companies selling their stones. They say that the stones are all “fully disclosed” with IGI lab reports, meaning that companies selling the stones tell their customers that they are lab-created and provide reports confirming the stone's origin. This is highly likely to be a game changer in the diamond industry. Only 2% of the natural diamonds currently mined are as high quality as these lab-created stones. So is this a good thing or a bad thing? It depends on how you look at it. This could be a positive thing for the environment since diamond mining is typically a very destructive process – it is finding a needle in a haystack process that often destroys the mining area. It could be a positive thing from a humanitarian perspective since the lust for diamonds can result in atrocious working conditions for miners – Have you ever seen the movie “Blood Diamond”? As for price, as technology evolves, the supply of these lab-created diamonds will increase, and the cost of production will decrease. This makes it possible that owning a 10 Ct lab-created diamond might become commonplace. On the negative side, it leaves the door wide open for deception, promises to devalue the natural diamond market, and creates a challenge for buyers – how can you be sure that you know exactly what you’re buying; natural or lab-created? At K. Hollis Jewelers, we only deal with suppliers that we know and trust and that provide certificates for their lab-grown diamonds and laser inscribed on the stone’s girdle, clearly identifying the stone as a lab-grown diamond. We have also invested in a high-end diamond tester that can distinguish between a mined diamond and a lab-grown diamond. The key is to know precisely what you are buying – then the decision is yours. A lab-created diamond has quite a few advantages over a mined diamond, but it’s just a choice. The real problem is that not everyone out there is as honest as they should be, and with new technology, it is getting more difficult to distinguish natural from lab-created. This creates a greater opportunity for the thieves of this world to deceive buyers. The risk is multiplied on the internet, where customers typically buy from “faceless” companies that could be located anywhere. This is a classic “buyer beware” thing. Not that I’m the most objective guy out there since we own a jewelry store, but trustworthy local jewelers live and die on their reputation, so they provide an extra layer of protection for their customers.

Every diamond is unique—just like every person. An unlimited combination of factors determines a diamond's quality. The universal standard that describes and assesses each diamond is the 4 Cs — color, clarity, cut, and carat weight . Ultimately, a diamond’s beauty is determined by how it interacts with light—how it reflects, refracts, and exits through the top of the stone. Color The color of a diamond  is a major factor in determining its value. The most sought-after diamonds are colorless  because they reflect light beautifully, displaying a rainbow of colors. These diamonds are graded D, E, or F  on the color scale, with D being completely colorless. Within the normal color range , diamonds vary from colorless to light yellow or brown. The full color scale ranges from D to Z , with diamonds at the lower end (S-Z) showing noticeable color. Most diamonds fall between F and I , striking a balance between value and visual appeal. Clarity Just like people, diamonds have unique characteristics . Clarity refers to a diamond’s internal inclusions and surface blemishes . These natural imperfections form during a diamond’s creation process and are what make each diamond one of a kind. Clarity is graded on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I)  based on five factors: size, number, position, nature, and color/relief  of inclusions. While some inclusions are invisible to the naked eye , others may affect transparency and brilliance. However, inclusions also serve as a natural fingerprint, distinguishing real diamonds from imitations. Cut A diamond’s cut is the key to its sparkle . It is the only one of the 4Cs influenced by human craftsmanship . The skillful cutting of a diamond’s facets and angles determines how light reflects within the stone, creating brilliance and fire. Three optical effects contribute to a diamond’s beauty: Brightness:  White light reflections. Fire:  Flashes of color as light disperses. Contrast:  The balance of bright and dark areas that create depth. Diamond cut grade  directly impacts brilliance—higher cut grades result in more dazzling sparkle . Although “cut” is often confused with shape , they are different. Round brilliant diamonds are graded with a cut scale, while fancy shapes  like princess, marquise, pear, oval, heart, and emerald cuts have different proportions and aesthetic appeal. Carat Weight Diamonds are weighed in metric carats , where one carat equals 200 milligrams . Carats are further divided into 100 points . For reference, a small paperclip weighs about one carat. Carat weight affects perceived size , but two diamonds with the same weight can appear drastically different depending on how weight is distributed . Factors like cut and depth  impact a diamond’s spread, meaning a shallower cut may appear larger than a deeper cut of the same weight. Additionally, while total carat weight matters, larger diamonds are significantly rarer  than multiple smaller diamonds of the same combined weight. This rarity makes larger diamonds more valuable, even if the smaller diamonds have the same quality characteristics. Lab-Grown Diamond Differences While lab-grown diamonds  have the same chemical composition and beauty as mined diamonds, their creation process differs. These diamonds are formed in a controlled environment rather than deep within the earth. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative to natural diamonds while maintaining the same grading standards for color, clarity, cut, and carat weight . Choosing the Right Diamond for You Understanding the 4Cs of diamonds  helps you make an informed decision when selecting the perfect stone. Whether you're looking for a traditional natural diamond or considering a lab-grown option, K. Hollis Jewelers is here to guide you. Visit us in Batavia, IL , and let us help you find a diamond that reflects your style, values, and budget. ✨ For more information on diamond grading, visit GIA’s Diamond Quality Factors .

Local retailers are a place to see, touch and feel products; a place where real people are there to answer questions and guide you when you need it; and a place to go if things don’t go quite right. Great local retailers are even more than that. At K.Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar we want to be not just great, but we want to be the best of the best so we know we have to be much more than just a good place to buy stuff.  To be the best of the best, we’ve created a shopping destination where you’ll have a great shopping experience; where you’ll get the special attention you deserve; where you shop at your pace, not ours; where you can create trusted relationships with owners & staff; where there are no gimmicks or games; and where people gather to socialize, attend events, and celebrate special occasions. Our customers have given us over 1,000 5-star reviews on Google, thousands of people shop with us every year, and we’re voted one of the best local jewelry stores and boutiques year after year. We’re not like any other retailer so unless you’ve been in our store, it’s hard to know what to expect.  Here’s a summary of what you’ll find when you walk through our doors, but you really need to stop in to experience K.Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar for yourself. For jewelry , you’ll find a huge selection of beautiful jewelry for any occasion and at every price point; talented staff that’s ready to help you find or create the perfect engagement ring or custom jewelry item; high-quality repairs and appraisals done onsite by people you can trust; financing options when you need them, and a place where we value a life-long relationship over any single transaction. For women’s clothing , you’ll find a great selection of unique, versatile, comfortable clothing that looks great on you; that fits your body type, color palette, and personal style; that can be combined in multiple ways so you look and feel great every day; where you get the personal attention and guidance you deserve; where you’ll find great deals every day in our Clearance Closet, and where you’ll enjoy your shopping experience so much that you’ll bring your friends with you on your next visit. For the wine bar , you’ll find a great spot to grab a glass of wine or beer to sip on while you shop; an amazing gathering spot for you and friends; a place to host your social, business, non-profit, or networking gatherings; and a place that helps make our special events extra special. Having all of this under one roof gives you a shopping experience you can’t find anywhere else. It gives us the opportunity to be an integral part of our community and share special occasions and life events with our customers. That’s a win-win in my book. So stop in and experience K.Hollis for yourself. We’re confident that you’ll see why thousands of people shop with us, give us 5-star reviews, and voted us the “Best of the Best” Jewelry Store and Women’s Clothing Store in the 2024 Daily Herald Reader’s Choice Award.

I own a brick & mortar retail store, and I shop online. There, I said it out loud. We’ve been in the retail business for almost 20 years and have seen the waves of change in how people shop for the things they need, the things they want, and the things they don’t know they need or want yet. We’ve read the articles about the death of brick & mortar retail, seen the shift in shopping and buying behaviors, and have tried to evolve as a business through it all. Miller Lite has waged a decades long battle between “Tastes Great” and “Less Filling”. The newest ads end with someone yelling at the top of their lungs, “It’s Both”!  This sums up how I feel about brick & mortar retail.  Allow me to explain. Buying online is super convenient, and we can do a great deal of shopping from the couch. We can have almost anything delivered to our doorstep without ever leaving the comfort of home. So then, why do people still leave their home, brave the elements, navigate traffic, park, and walk into a brick & mortar retailer to shop?  At a core level, we humans have a yearning for social connections that drive us to get off the couch and venture out into the world. It is buried deep inside our DNA. We’re compelled to go in search of satisfying human experiences and be part of a larger community. We learn, we share, we gather, and we connect –  that’s what humans do. At a practical level, we have questions, we want to see, feel, and experience actual products, and we want to know that someone is there to make things right when things go wrong. We want to talk face-to-face with an actual person, form relationships, share thoughts & opinions, get expert guidance, and have some fun along the way.  Our business is proof that shopping with brick & mortar retailers is very much alive and well. We get to be part of those fulfilling human experiences with thousands of people every year. Our customers get all the practical benefits of shopping with people they know and trust, surrounded by actual products that they can touch, feel and try on, and knowing where they can find us whenever they need us. So… is it human nature or practicality that keep retailers like us thriving? Like they say in the Miller Lite commercials, “It’s Both”!

The holiday season is a time for showing appreciation and creating memories with those you love. At K. Hollis Jewelers in Batavia, IL, we have a curated collection with gifts that will make this time of year truly unforgettable. From timeless fine jewelry to stylish fashion jewelry, we have something for everyone on your list. If you’re seeking something trendy, explore our curated fashion jewelry selection. Layering pieces and versatile styles make perfect gifts for those who love accessorizing. For vibrant simplicity, Kendra Scott offers beautiful pops of color. For bold, eye-catching designs, Mariana jewelry is a standout. If classic elegance is more your style, explore Ti Sento and Ania Haie collections. Make a lasting impression with our fine jewelry collection, which features carefully chosen diamonds and stones. For a timeless gift that anyone will treasure, explore our exceptional diamond collection. You can personalize your gift further with our selection of meaningful gemstones or a symbolic piece like a cross pendant.  For an extra personal touch, consider our engraving services. Create a one-of-a-kind gift by adding a special message or meaningful date to a piece of jewelry. Choose from our blank engravable options, or enhance an item from our other collections. Be sure to consult with our jewelers to ensure your engraving is ready in time for the holidays. Don’t forget our boutique’s one-of-a-kind clothing options—ideal for cozy, stylish gifts during the winter months. And while you’re here, stop by our wine bar for a glass of wine or beer to sip while you shop. With expert staff on hand to assist, and an array of choices to suit every style and budget, K. Hollis Jewelers makes holiday shopping as enjoyable as the gifts you’ll give.  This holiday season, make your gifts sparkle with thoughtfulness and unique finds from K. Hollis Jewelers. Visit us in-store to find the perfect present for everyone on your list.

Have you ever found the perfect piece of jewelry but weren’t ready to buy it at that moment? Or maybe you’ve dropped hints about a dream gift, only to receive something completely different? At K. Hollis Jewelers, we’ve made gift-giving (and treating yourself) easier with our Wishlist Service ! How It Works Creating a wishlist at K. Hollis Jewelers is simple and stress-free: 1️⃣ Visit Us In-Store  – Browse our selection of fine and fashion jewelry, engagement rings, wedding bands, and more. 2️⃣ Add Your Favorites  – Whether it’s a sparkling diamond pendant, a stackable band, or a statement fashion piece, we’ll add your selections to your personal wishlist. 3️⃣ Share or Save for Later  – Keep your wishlist on file so loved ones can shop for you with confidence. You can even stop in later and pick out something special for yourself! 4️⃣ We’ll Keep Track  – If something on your wishlist sells out, we can reorder it for you. And if it’s no longer available, we’ll help you find a similar piece you’ll love just as much. The Perfect Solution for Gifting Wishlists take the guesswork out of buying jewelry. Whether for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or just because—your loved ones will know exactly what to get you. All they have to do is stop by and ask to shop from your wishlist! ✨ Ready to start your wishlist?  Visit K. Hollis Jewelers in Batavia, IL, and let us help you curate a collection of your favorite pieces!

Kendra Scott Jewelry is more than a brand—it’s a celebration of style, compassion, and connection. Established in 2002, the brand has become synonymous with innovative, high-quality products that make fashion accessible to all. With a deep commitment to creating positive change, Kendra Scott Jewelry uses natural materials and supports charitable initiatives, making a difference in the lives of women and youth. Let's explore the brand's core values, their use of natural gemstones, their philanthropic endeavors, and the essence of family that drives their mission. Fashion, Philanthropy, and Family At the heart of Kendra Scott Jewelry lies a dedication to fashion, philanthropy, and family. Kendra Scott herself, a mother of three boys, started the company when her first son was just three months old. This family-centered approach has been a driving force throughout the brand's journey and will continue to shape its future. With a deep understanding of the importance of family, Kendra Scott Jewelry creates designs that celebrate individuality and reflect the unique style of each wearer. The Use of Natural Gemstones Kendra Scott's love for natural gemstones has been a cornerstone of the brand since the beginning. Recognizing a gap in the market for quality styles and stones at an affordable price, Kendra Scott took matters into her own hands and began creating exquisite pieces herself. By bridging the gap between luxury and affordability, the brand has made elegant, nature-inspired jewelry accessible to everyone. Philanthropic Endeavors "We exist to create good in the world" is not just a motto for Kendra Scott Jewelry; it is a guiding principle. With a firm belief in using their success to improve the lives of others, the brand dedicates a portion of their annual sales to support women and youth in the areas of health and wellness, education, and entrepreneurship. By directly contributing to these causes, Kendra Scott Jewelry goes beyond fashion, making a tangible impact on communities and fostering positive change. The Kendra Scott Promise Kendra Scott Jewelry represents the perfect synergy of fashion, philanthropy, and family values. Since its establishment in 2002, the brand has been committed to creating innovative, high-quality products that are accessible to all. By utilizing natural materials Kendra Scott Jewelry delivers affordable luxury. What sets Kendra Scott apart is their unwavering dedication to philanthropy. By supporting women and youth in critical areas such as health, education, and entrepreneurship, the brand uplifts communities and creates meaningful change. By shopping Kendra Scott Jewelry, you not only embrace fashion but also contribute to a brand that believes in creating a brighter future for all. Together, we can shine bright and do good in the world. Get inspired by our selection here .

Mariana Jewelry isn’t just about jewelry—it’s about artistry, inspiration, and a heartfelt mission. With a meticulous approach to craftsmanship and a passion for empowering individuals, Mariana Jewelry has become a beacon of beauty and meaning. Let’s explore the magic behind this exceptional brand, from its visionary designer to the captivating styles that make each piece a treasure. The Designer Mariana’s philosophy is simple yet profound: color is to the eye what music is to the ear. For over 20 years, she has created jewelry that harmonizes vibrant color combinations with a touch of spiritual energy. Guided by her belief that jewelry can uplift and inspire, each design is a heartfelt expression of joy and artistry. Supported by her family and fueled by her passion, Mariana continues to design pieces that go beyond adornment—they tell stories, evoke emotions, and celebrate life. Crafting Mariana Jewelry Every piece of Mariana Jewelry is a masterpiece, handcrafted by skilled artisans who bring the designer’s vision to life. By blending time-honored techniques with modern innovation, the brand ensures each item is crafted to perfection. Mariana Jewelry uses only the finest materials, including semi-precious gemstones, sparkling Swarovski crystals, and intricate metalwork. This commitment to quality is evident in the impeccable finish of their necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings, each exuding luxury and sophistication. The Mission of Mariana Jewelry Beyond creating exquisite jewelry, Mariana Jewelry is driven by a meaningful mission. The brand aims to inspire and empower individuals through their creations. They believe that jewelry is not just an accessory but a representation of one's personal style and story. Mariana Jewelry seeks to provide individuals with a means of self-expression, allowing them to embrace their unique identity with confidence. The Styles of Mariana Jewelry Mariana Jewelry offers a diverse range of styles, ensuring that there is something for every taste and occasion. Their collections are characterized by a harmonious blend of classic elegance and contemporary flair. Whether you prefer delicate and understated pieces or bold and statement-making designs, Mariana Jewelry caters to diverse preferences. From vibrant gemstone pendants to sparkling earrings that catch the light just right, Mariana Jewelry celebrates color, intricate patterns, and unique materials. These versatile designs seamlessly transition from day to night, adding elegance to any outfit or occasion. How Mariana Jewelry Stands Out Mariana Jewelry combines artistry, timeless elegance, and a powerful mission, making it a brand that stands out in the world of jewelry. With their dedication to details and commitment to empowering individuals, Mariana Jewelry allows wearers to express their personal style and make a positive impact in the world simultaneously. By embracing Mariana Jewelry, individuals embrace a legacy of beauty, craftsmanship, and purpose. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the passion and dedication of the artisans who bring them to life. Whether worn for special occasions or cherished as everyday adornments, Mariana Jewelry represents a timeless and elegant symbol of self-expression and empowerment.

Pick the Diamond that's Right for You So you walk into a jewelry store and see dozens or even hundreds of diamonds - how do you choose the one that's right for you? The short answer is, don't jump the gun and purchase what they have in stock today instead of waiting for the perfect diamond that is right for you. Here are some of my thoughts on choosing a diamond. Compare diamonds side-by-side and choose the one that "feels" or "looks" best within your budget. The ONLY diamond certificate that you can trust is a GIA certificate. There are dozens of organizations that grade diamonds and produce grading certificates. Be warned that many of the grades on certificates other than a GIA certificate are inaccurate. You can end up paying too much for a diamond that is something other than what it says it is on the certificate. All but the rarest of diamonds have "flaws" called inclusions. The critical thing to know about inclusions is how they affect the look and durability of the diamond (yes, diamonds can break). When a diamond is graded at an SI clarity or above, the naked eye cannot see the inclusions - they require at least 10X magnification. If you are buying a gift or engagement ring, know what shape (round, cushion, marquee, oval, etc.) the recipient likes. If you can't, ask the recipient to pay attention to the jewelry they wear now or ask a close friend or family member. Do some online shopping with reputable jewelers to get an idea of what diamonds should cost, but keep a couple of essential things in mind - not all diamonds you find on the internet are what they appear to be. Many of them are not available. The look of a diamond is the result of how light reflects and exits from the top of the stone, so it is important to see the stone in person. Consider disregarding diamonds that are significantly cheaper than the average - just like anything else, something that looks too good to be true probably is. Have a budget in mind, and ask your jeweler to show you stones within your price range. There are almost an infinite number of characteristics that impact the price of a diamond. Start with shape and size and look at diamonds with various color, cut, and clarity grades to see how they compare. Often you will find that one diamond stands out --- and it will only sometimes be the most expensive one. Don't let a jeweler "guilt" you into spending a percentage of your income or measure how much you should spend on a diamond. Find the diamond that best fits your budget. Shop with a jeweler that values your needs. A jeweler interested in helping you buy the right diamond will be happy to bring additional diamonds into their store (usually within a day or two) if they need the perfect diamond in stock. Except for unusual sizes, shapes, or other characteristics, diamonds are not as rare as most in the jewelry business would have you believe. Work with a jeweler you can trust, which will be there after the sale. Buying a diamond, choosing a setting, and setting the stones should be enjoyable, not a pressure-filled, agonizing task. Find someone you enjoy working with and are interested in a long-term relationship, not just a one-time sale. We frequently redesign engagement or wedding rings for couples to completely change the ring's look or increase the size or quality of the center stone. The message is that everyone can avoid going into significant debt to purchase their engagement ring.

Mother nature is perfect. Like people, she made no two diamonds exactly alike – each has its own unique personality. One of the cornerstones of our business is helping people create rings and select diamonds that are more than just the right size, style, and budget – they're perfect for you... no one else., Like an ideal partner, the perfect diamond engagement ring will stand the test of time. That's why you should get to know your ring before you buy it by shopping with us and enjoying the experience. As a general rule, the higher quality a diamond is, the more beautiful — and the more expensive — it will be, but not always. The 4Cs describe diamond quality - Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat weight, but you must see a diamond to know if it is right for you. A wise woman once said, "you wouldn't choose your wife based solely on her measurements, so why would you choose a diamond based on its measurements?" You need to see and experience the diamond to know for sure. You can get a beautiful diamond that fits your budget by making simple trade-offs in the 4Cs. Great advice for buying diamonds from one of our favorite people in the industry.

Did you know that your engagement ring, particularly its diamond, collects film from cosmetics, lotion, soap, and even skin oil? These harmful emissions will reduce the fire of your diamond. Have you ever wondered why that ring you wore only once has a scratch? Perhaps it was due to improper storage. Did you know that the prongs that secure your diamond in your ring will wear and get thin over time? The time it takes for prongs to become dangerously thin depends on how active you are, what kind of job you have, what type of metal the prongs are made from, and how you care for your engagement ring. Caring for your ring is a simple task. Here are a few tips on how to keep your engagement ring looking shiny and new... Wear We know you wear your ring often, perhaps never even taking it off. Unforeseen events may endanger the beauty of your jewelry, but you can take some easy steps to avoid common hazards. Avoid wearing fine jewelry when performing manual labor tasks, such as yard work or labor that would stress your jewelry. We recently replaced a beautiful engagement ring that was lost while racking leaves - the ring slipped off at some point during the job and was probably sucked into the city's leaf collector on collection day. We were able to recreate the ring, but there's always a special attachment to the ring that was first put on your finger. Household chores, like doing the dishes, are potentially harmful to your engagement ring in that film can accumulate and distort the color or reduce the shimmer of your diamond, gold, or platinum. Removing your engagement ring before participating in sporting activities is always a good idea. Try not to wear your platinum, gold, or diamond ring in swimming pools. Over some time, chlorine could damage the ring's makeup. Cleaning Regular cleaning of your engagement ring will keep it looking great. There are no exact time frames to follow when defining "regularly." Anywhere from 2-4 times a year, depending on wear, should be sufficient. Our customers are welcome to stop in at any time for a free cleaning and inspection. Each type of jewelry has specific guidelines to clean it most effectively: Diamonds: Either use a commercial jewelry cleaner (follow their directions) or mix one cup of hot water, one-quarter cup of household ammonia, and one tablespoon of dishwashing detergent. Don't use anything abrasive. Then, soak the diamonds for about twenty minutes. Scrub firmly but slowly with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Rinse the diamonds in hot water and then dip them in rubbing alcohol and let air dry or towel off with a lint-free cloth. Don't rinse off the alcohol. To ensure the least amount of prints and oily residue, pick up the ring around its edges and avoid putting your fingertips directly on the diamond. Gold: There are many good commercial gold jewelry cleaners available. We carry one at the store, but a soft chamois cloth is a great way to keep your gold lustrous and clean. To thoroughly clean your gold jewelry, soak your ring for ten to fifteen minutes in a solution of one cup of warm water mixed with one-quarter cup of ammonia. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently wipe away tarnish, dirt or film. Then, rinse with warm water, dry with a lint-free towel, or simply air-dry. To remove grease or other superficial infirmities, dip the jewelry into rubbing alcohol. Platinum: Even though platinum is very durable and mostly scratch-resistant, proper cleaning is necessary to ensure its luster and strength. Platinum can be cleaned with the same solution used to clean gold. There are also effective commercial platinum cleaners. All of your gold, platinum and diamond jewelry will benefit with annual or bi-annual professional cleaning. Storage To best protect your jewelry when it is not worn, separate it from other jewelry. (Use different compartments within your jewelry box.) Ideally, wrap each piece in velvet, paper, or silk - small plastic bags can also help protect each piece of jewelry. Be aware that jewelry can scratch other jewelry. A diamond can easily scratch a gold ring, platinum ring, or almost any gemstone. For silver jewelry, consider storing it in a tarnish-resistant plastic bag. This will not only protect the jewelry against scratches but will also keep it looking its best. Annual Inspection We recommend an annual checkup for your ring. Bring your wedding, engagement, and/or anniversary bands to us, and we'll be happy to inspect them and let you know if any potential issues need attention. We'll check the prongs to ensure that your stones are secure, inspect the ring for scratches, and recommend solutions to any immediate or potential problems.