Gem care
Semi-Precious Stones:
Many minerals are classified as gemstones due to their luster or ability to hold a polish, their cut and clarity. Gemstones would be among the most durable of substances, they do however need some care to keep them that way.
Referring to the Moh’s scale of hardness we see that gemstones vary enormously and should be treated with respect because of this. Even a diamond, the hardest gemstone on Moh’s scale can chip or fracture if hit sharply. Softer stones such as opal need special care caution should be exercised when wearing on a daily basis.
To clean transparent crystalline gemstones simply soak them in tepid water with a touch of gentle soap. If necessary where a build up of dirt has happened it might be necessary to use a soft brush to gently rub behind the stone. The use of lotions & oils etc can block the setting making the gemstone appear quite ‘milky’. This soaking in gentle soapy water should cleanse the area and the gemstone will sparkle once more.
Ultrasonic cleaners, whilst very effective in cleaning many forms of jewellery should be viewed with caution when gemstones are considered as the reaction of some chemicals is not favorable to the gems. If in doubt keep it out.
Try to keep your jewelry as clean as possible. If you are about to do some hard work or strenuous work it would be advisable to take off rings etc to avoid damaging them. Its basically a common sense approach.
The table below gives a basic outline of how best to care for your gemstones and jewellery but it never hurts to make sure your jeweler checks them over regularly. He will be able to see any weakness in the settings or possible fractures due to inclusions in your stones.
Amber: Easily damaged by heat, pressure, and chemicals. Wipe or soak in soapy water.
Amethyst: Avoid strong heat. Use ultrasonic with care. Soak in mild ammonia & brush gently.
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Opal: Very heat sensitive. Avoid all solvents. Brush with soapy water do not soak.
Peridot: Heat sensitive. Soak in mils ammonia or soak in soapy water.
Sapphire: Check for inclusions first but ultrasonics usually safe. Soak in soapy water.
Garnet: Ultrasonic with care. Avoid heat. Soak in soapy water & brush gently.
Iolite: Ultrasonic use with care. Acids can damage it. Soak in soapy water & brush gently.
Topaz: Due to cleavage can fracture if hit sharply. Avoid ultrasonic. Soak in soapy water and brush gently.
Zircon: Ultrasonic with care. High heat may damage its colour. Soak in soapy water and brush gently.
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Aquamarine: Use ultrasonic with care. Soak in mild ammonia or soapy water and brush gently if necessary.
Beryl: As above.
Citrine: Strong heat may destroy colour. Best to soak in soapy water and use soft brush where needed.
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how best to care for your gemstones and jewellery
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