Protecting Your Engagement Ring Investment

Getting engaged is exciting and thrilling! Suddenly, you're introduced into the whirlwind that is wedding planning, and everyone likely has an opinion of what you should be doing. One thing you don't want to overlook is how to protect the beautiful piece of jewelry you just received.

Keeping your Ring Safe from Harm

These tried and true tips will help keep your ring where it belongs - on your finger - instead of becoming someone else's newest treasure.

• If the ring fits, wear it. Otherwise, have it resized so it fits properly. A too-loose ring is just a lost ring waiting to happen.


• If you decide to show off your ring at the spa or pool, remember that body oils and sunscreen are slippery substances. Just the perfect thing to slip that ring off your finger unbeknownst to you.


• You know that soaps can dull your ring's luster, so taking it off before washing your hands is a great idea. But don't put it next to the sink on the counter unless the stopper is in place or you may be watching your ring zip down the drain. One way to prevent this in a public place is to put your ring between your teeth. At least you'll remember where it is.


• Don't sleep with your jewelry on. It can become snagged in the bedclothes and can scratch you as you sleep.


• Try to take your ring off in the same place each evening. A jewelry box or ring holder will keep it safe until you put it on again.

Respect the Ring

Your ring is constructed of precious metal and beautiful jewels. It's important to note that everyday wear and tear can take a toll on your ring, so it's a good idea to not have it on when cleaning or doing other household chores. Here's why:

• Cleaning chemicals can do a number on your ring, especially if it's made of platinum. Don't take a chance on it getting stained or weakened, always remove your ring first.


• Washing dishes exposes your ring to dirt and oil, which can dull the finish (temporarily).


• Gardening and other manual labor is not the best place for an expensive ring to make an appearance. Diamonds, while quite hard, can still become chipped and even dislodged if bumped and settings can be damaged if hit or snagged.


• The same goes for playing sports - not to mention the damage you could do to your opponent if he or she accidentally runs into your ring.

It's also a good idea to have a regular (yearly) exam done of your ring to be sure the setting is still secure, the prongs are tight and the stone hasn't become damaged in some way. Generally, this is offered free at the jeweler where the ring was purchased, or you may be charged a nominal fee.

Better to be Safe than Sorry

One thing that's often overlooked is the need to insure your engagement ring. Since it's not likely to be inexpensive piece, having insurance at least guarantees that you can get a replacement in the event it is lost or stolen.

• Before you buy a separate policy, check your homeowner's, or renter's insurance policy to determine if you already have adequate coverage. It's likely you won't, since most policies only cover up to $500 or $1,000 of jewelry replacement - and this is for all the jewelry you own.


• To fully insure your ring for its appraised value, you may need to take out a floater, rider or personal articles policy in addition to your existing insurance. The cost for this added policy is usually nominal and based on a calculation that includes the appraised value of the ring. If your ring is lost or stolen, your insurance company can either opt to replace like with like or pay you the appraised amount.


• If you don't have homeowner's or renter's insurance, you can buy a specialty policy designed just for jewelry. Doing a recent search on Google for "Jewelry Insurance Specialist" netted over one million hits. Many companies offer online quoting capabilities, which allows you to compare rates and coverage options. For any insurance purchase, you will need an appraisal from a certified jeweler to establish the value of your ring.

By taking the time to protect this most important investment, you can relax and enjoy your engagement ring knowing that in the event of loss or damage you're covered.