Who doesn’t remember that first morning you woke up after your dream proposal? You sit up and think; “is this real life” and then look down at your hand to see that sparkling gem and your heart goes wild all over again. It’s almost blinding how beautiful your ring is, am I right? Unfortunately all it takes is a few months of wear to dull that diamond’s shine. Today I’m sharing the 5 tips you need to care for your engagement ring and ensure it sparkles for years to come!

1. Get insurance

This is your number one must-do item. Your man spent a pretty penny on making all of your ring dreams come true so it would be a total nightmare if something happened to your ring! While nothing can replace the sentimental value of your engagement ring, if you have it properly appraised and insured for its full replacement value, you’ll at least be covered if it’s ever lost, stolen or damaged. Some insurance companies offer more than others, so it’s worth doing a little homework. For example, Jewelers Mutual offers replacement with same kind and quality, which is especially important if you have a designer piece.

2. Keep it clean

Washing your hands or scrubbing your ring in the shower won’t cut it! The best home remedy is to mix a few drops of Dawn dish soap in warm water (not hot), let your ring soak in the soap mix for a few minutes and then scrub with a baby toothbrush.  To rinse, place it in a new dish of lukewarm water and then dry it with a soft cloth, being careful not to snag the prongs. I know this goes without saying but make sure you don’t clean your ring over a sink or drain, you don’t want to know what’s hiding in those pipes as you fish your precious gem out. Another great product I love is the Gem Pen, recently released by The Mrs. Box, this pen is an on the go cleaner that every bride needs!

3. Remove your ring during hands on activities

While you might feel like you never want to take off that rock, you should do it often. Working out at the gym, washing dishes, laundry and other household tasks will put stress on your ring, from stretching the band to loosening the delicate settings. “Be careful what you lift while wearing your ring,” says Nicole Mann Novick, the jewelry designer behind Garland Collection. “Loose stones after traveling is not a coincidence—carrying heavy luggage is a surefire way to break or bend prongs.” Anytime you’re hitting the pool or catching some waves you want to make sure to remove that ring! It’s amazing how many people lose their rings every year while they’re snorkeling, surfing or simply lounging in the ocean.

4. Have a yearly maintenance appointment with your jeweler

Think of it this way: Your ring needs this yearly visit like you need your annual physical or your car needs a tune-up. The last thing you want is to look down and notice your diamond has fallen out of its setting because of a bent prong. Minor preventive repairs now can save you a lot of heartache later and when you’re there your right will be cleaned to sparkle like it’s brand new again!

5. Get it professionally cleaned before photos

This is my favorite tip for anyone about to get in front of a camera; brides to be and mom’s alike! You wouldn’t believe the difference a freshly cleaned ring can make in photos, whether your ring is 2 months old or 20 years old having it professionally cleaned will make it look brand new again.  Drop it off at any reputable jewelry store and they can take care of the job.

Make sure your ring sparkles for years to come with these 5 tips to care for your engagement ring!