The old saying that "diamonds are forever" may sound clich?, but is founded in absolute truth. Diamonds offer a beauty, brilliance, and durability that is second to no other natural stone on Earth. Unfortunately due to the diamond's durability, most forget that the utmost care and attention is still required to keep these precious gems looking showroom sharp. When caring for a diamond, the summer months can be the hardest on the stone and the setting. This summer, before the fun begins, set a little time aside to keep your precious stone in top condition.

Diamonds are the hardest stone on Earth, however the settings a diamond needs in order to be worn are not quite as durable. The gold, silver, platinum and palladium used to house your stone can show very real signs of wear thanks to summer's unique events and activities. Here are a few tips to care for your diamond this summer.

1. Avoid salt water. While the chlorine present in swimming pools can harm the mounting of a diamond piece, salt water can harm the diamond itself. The erosive properties of salt water can act like sandpaper on the surface of the diamond causing the stone to appear less vibrant and brilliant. When swimming in ocean water or other forms of salt water, removal of the diamond piece is recommended. If your diamond has been buffed by the salt, take it to a jeweler for a cleaning. The industrial buffers used to shine diamonds can return the brilliance to your stone.

2. Reduce the amount of oils and grease. The summer is known for sunscreens, lotions, and bug sprays which contribute to a more enjoyable summer for the wearer. However, these items can make a diamond appear dull and lifeless as they build on thick layers of grime. In addition to the natural oils and sweat produced by our bodies, those added oils that we apply should be cleaned on a regular basis during the summer months. A daily swish of your diamond in warm water with a soft cleaning solution is enough to keep your diamond sparkling.

3. Expeditions are not for diamonds. The hardest stone in the world does have the ability to break. For those rough and tough family outings like hiking, rock climbing and camping, leaving the diamond wedding rings, engagement rings, and other loose diamond jewelry at home is a good idea for both diamond and the wearer. Not only can rough activity cause a diamond to chip, but the mounting can be disfigured causing diamond to fall out during the activity. Another risk is ring avulsion which occurs when a ring is caught and ripped from the finger of the wearer. Outdoor activities are best completed with jewelry-free hands, necks and arms.

Your diamond is a beautiful treasure that is meant to last a lifetime. However, with the amount of chemicals (both manmade and natural) and the "extremeness" of today's physical activities, the diamond needs a little extra care in order to stay as brilliant as it was on the day of purchase. This summer, take a few extra moments to care for your diamond to ensure that its timeless beauty can be seen year round.