The Dos and Don’ts of Cleaning Your Gemstones
Gemstones can be a beautiful addition to any outfit or jewelry collection, but it is important to know the proper way to clean them. To make sure your gemstones stay looking their best, here are some essential dos and don’ts of cleaning your gemstones. Keep these tips in mind so you can enjoy your gemstones for years to come.
What are the DO’s
1) Research your stone
Before cleaning your gemstones, it is important to first understand what type of stone you have and the best methods for cleaning it. Different stones require different techniques and products to clean them effectively and safely. Be sure to consult a professional if you’re unsure about how to properly clean your stone. Different stones also react differently when exposed to certain chemicals and cleaners, so be sure to research your stone before cleaning it. Additionally, be sure to check any markings or engravings on the stone as some may be weakened by certain cleaning processes. Knowing your stone and the best practices for cleaning it will ensure that you get the most out of your gemstone cleaning process.
2) Choose the right method
When it comes to cleaning your gemstones, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right method. Different gemstones require different methods of cleaning in order to maintain their beauty and integrity. For instance, emeralds should never be exposed to strong light or heat, so avoid using harsh chemicals on them and opt for a gentle soap and warm water instead. For harder stones such as diamonds and sapphires, scrubbing with a soft toothbrush and a mild detergent may be necessary. Be sure to read up on the best ways to clean your particular stones before you get started.
3) Soak if needed
If your gemstone is particularly dirty, soaking it in warm water with a gentle detergent may be the best way to get it sparkling clean. Start by mixing one tablespoon of gentle dishwashing soap with a cup of warm water and adding your gemstone to the solution. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, stirring it gently every few minutes. If necessary, you can soak it for up to an hour. Be sure to rinse off your stone thoroughly with clean water when done. You may also want to add a bit of ammonia or alcohol to the solution if the dirt is particularly hard to remove. This should help break down the dirt and make it easier to remove.
4) Dry with a soft cloth
Once you have finished cleaning your gemstone, it’s important to dry it off properly. If the stone is particularly fragile or delicate, use a soft cloth or chamois to gently pat it dry, taking extra care to avoid any scratches or chips. Using a soft cloth will also help absorb any moisture that may be present on the gemstone. Make sure to never use any sort of paper product, such as tissues or paper towels, as these can scratch or damage the surface of the gemstone. If you are unable to get all the moisture off with a cloth, use a blow dryer set to its lowest setting. Again, make sure that you do not blow too hard as it may cause damage.
What are the DON’Ts
1) Use harsh chemicals
When cleaning your gemstones, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the delicate stone. Chemicals like bleach and acetone can erode the surface of the gemstone and make it look dull. These harsh chemicals can also strip away the protective oils and waxes that are used to make the gemstone look its best. Furthermore, many gemstones such as turquoise and lapis lazuli are very sensitive to harsh chemicals, so it is best to avoid them entirely. If you must use a chemical cleaner on your gemstone, be sure to use only a mild soap or solution.
2) Scrub the stone
Scrubbing a gemstone is not a good idea. Doing so can damage the stone’s surface, making it look cloudy or foggy. This is because scrubbing can cause tiny scratches on the surface of the gemstone, which will give it a dull appearance. Additionally, some gemstones have softer surfaces than others, which means they could be damaged more easily by vigorous scrubbing.
If your gemstone needs to be cleaned, the best option is to use an appropriate cleaning method (soaking, wiping, etc.) that does not involve scrubbing. You can also try using a toothbrush with very soft bristles and warm water to gently clean the stone. Just remember to be careful and avoid hard scrubbing.
3) Use ultrasonic cleaners
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt, dust, and debris from gemstones. However, many gemstones are too fragile to withstand the extreme pressure of the sound waves and could be damaged in the process. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided when cleaning your gemstones. If you do choose to use an ultrasonic cleaner, make sure you consult with a professional first and only use the cleaning method on specific stones that can withstand the process. In general, it is better to avoid ultrasonic cleaners altogether and opt for a less aggressive cleaning method.
Conclusion
Cleaning your gemstones is an important part of their care and maintenance. Following these do’s and don’ts will help keep your stones clean and looking beautiful. If you have any further questions or need additional advice, it is best to consult a professional jeweler. For more tips, advice, and even to purchase stones, visit NN Exports today.