HOW TO CLEAN PRECIOUS & SEMI-PRECIOUS GEMS
Proper Care & Cleaning
Most people have no idea how to care for the jewelry they own. All gems can be cleaned safely using mild soap and water; however, detergents can leave a residue. The jewelry should be rinsed thoroughly and a soft toothbrush used to reach underneath the prongs of mounted gems. Contrary to popular belief, toothpaste should not be used! Commercial cleaners are available in various formulas for specific uses such as diamonds, colored gems, or pearls.
Many people have purchased small ultrasonic cleaners for use at home. A self-inflicted disaster can be avoided if you know that your ultrasonic cleaner should be used with caution. Emerald, for example, is frequently treated with oil to conceal fractures and can be damaged in an ultrasonic. Any gem with inclusions and some treated stones also can be damaged in an ultrasonic cleaner. Organic gems are particularly susceptible to damage by an ultrasonic cleaner. Porous gems, such as lapis, opal, or pearl, should never be cleaned this way.
Stanley’s Rule: If In Doubt…Don’t!
If you are ever in doubt about how to properly clean your gems and metals, please feel free to stop by the store any time with your jewelry for a thorough cleaning. In the majority of cases, this is done while you wait at no charge. We will clean your gems, polish the metals, and check the gems for security.
Cleaning Guide
The following gems are safe to clean in your ultrasonic at home: Garnet, Amethyst, Diamond, Alexandrite, Ruby, Sapphire, Tourmaline, and Citrine
The following gems should only be cleaned using mild soap, water, soft bristled brush, and then rinse thoroughly with luke warm water: Aquamarine, Emerald, Peridot, Opal, Topaz, and Tanzanite
Special Note: Pearls should only be cleaned using a lightly damp soft cloth. Since chemicals such as cologne, perfumes, and hairspray can damage pearls, they should be the last item you put on when dressing and the first item you take off when you get back home. They should not be stored with other jewelry! Pearls are very porous and scratch easily.
PLATINUM BUYING GUIDE
The Platinum Buying Guide will be available soon. Be sure to check our Blog daily.
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