Gemstone Jewellery is a beautiful and valuable addition to any collection. They come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes making each piece unique and special. However, with regular wear and exposure to everyday elements such as dirt, oils, and sweat, gemstone Jewellery  can lose its luster over time.

It's important to properly clean your gemstone Jewellery to maintain its beauty and value. In this guide, we will discuss the different types of gemstones and the best methods for cleaning them.

Types of Gemstones

Before we go into the cleaning methods, it's important to understand that not all gemstones are created equal. Different gemstones have varying hardness levels which can affect how they should be cleaned.

Soft Gemstones

Soft gemstones such as pearls, opals, and turquoise are delicate and require special care when cleaning. These gemstones have a hardness level of 5.5 or lower on the Mohs scale, making them susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals.

Medium-Hard Gemstones

Gemstones like amethyst, peridot, and citrine fall under this category with a hardness level of 6-7 on the Mohs scale. They are more durable than soft gemstones but still require gentle cleaning methods to avoid any damage.

Hard Gemstones

Sapphires, rubies, and diamonds are considered hard gemstones with a hardness level of 9 or higher on the Mohs scale. These gemstones are more resistant to scratches and can withstand more intense cleaning methods.

How to Cleaning Gemstone Jewellery

Cleaning Soft Gemstones

As mentioned earlier, soft gemstones require special care when cleaning. Harsh chemicals and abrasive materials should be avoided at all costs to prevent any damage. Here's how you can clean your soft gemstone Jewellery:

1. Pearls - To clean pearls, use a damp cloth with mild soap and gently wipe the surface of the pearls. Do not soak them in water as it can damage the string holding them together.
2. Opals - Opals are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity, so it's best to avoid using any liquids or cleaners on them. Just grab a soft cloth and gently wipe away any dirt or oils.
3. Turquoise - To clean turquoise, mix a small amount of mild soap with water and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface. Give it a rinse with warm water, then gently pat it dry with a soft cloth.

Cleaning Medium-Hard Gemstones

Gemstones in this category are slightly more durable but still require gentle cleaning methods to avoid any damage. Here's how you can clean your medium-hard gemstone Jewellery:

1. Amethyst - To clean amethyst, mix warm water with mild soap and soak the Jewellery for a few minutes. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils and rinse with warm water.
2. Peridot - To clean peridot, mix mild soap with warm water and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface. You can also use a Jewellery cleaning solution specifically designed for peridot.
3. Citrine - The best way to clean citrine is by using warm water and mild soap. Soak the Jewellery for a few minutes, then use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.

Cleaning Hard Gemstones

Hard gemstones are more durable and can withstand more intense cleaning methods. However, it's still important to be gentle and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Here's how you can clean your hard gemstone Jewellery :

1. Sapphires - To clean sapphires, mix warm water with mild soap and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and gently dry using a soft cloth.
2. Rubies - The ideal method for cleaning rubies is to gently wash them with warm water and a mild soap. Soak the Jewellery for a few minutes, then use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils. Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
3. Diamonds - Diamonds are the hardest gemstones and can withstand more intense cleaning methods. To clean diamonds, mix warm water with mild soap and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, then gently dry using a soft cloth.

Tips for Cleaning Gemstone Jewellery 

Now that you know how to clean different types of gemstones, here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Opt for gentle cleaning techniques and steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
• Never soak your Jewellery  in water as it can damage the string holding them together.
• It's best to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage certain gemstones.
• After cleaning, make sure to thoroughly dry your Jewellery with a soft cloth to prevent any water spots or residue.
• Store your gemstone Jewellery in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight to prevent any damage or discoloration.

Conclusion

Cleaning gemstone Jewellery is essential to maintain its beauty and value. By following these tips and using the appropriate cleaning methods for each type of gemstone, you can ensure that your jewelry remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Remember to always be gentle and avoid harsh chemicals to keep your gemstone jewelry looking as good as new. So, take care of your precious gemstone jewelry and enjoy its timeless beauty for a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean my gemstone Jewellery with regular household cleaners?

It's best to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials on your gemstone Jewellery as it can damage them. Stick to gentle cleaning methods and mild soap and water.

What if my gemstone is set in a delicate metal like silver?

If your gemstone is set in a delicate metal, it's best to use a soft cloth or toothbrush for cleaning instead of soaking it in water.

How often should I clean my gemstone Jewellery?

How often you should clean your Jewellery largely depends on how frequently you wear it. If worn frequently, it's recommended to clean them once every few weeks.

Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner to clean my gemstone Jewellery?

It's best to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage certain types of gemstones. Stick to gentle cleaning methods instead.

What if my gemstone has scratches or dullness after cleaning?

If your gemstone appears scratched or dull after cleaning, it may be due to the type of gemstone or setting. Consult a professional jeweler for advice on proper care and maintenance.

Is it safe to use toothpaste for cleaning gemstone Jewellery?

No, toothpaste is not recommended for cleaning gemstones as it can be abrasive and cause damage over time.

Can I wear my gemstone Jewellery while swimming or showering?

It's best to avoid wearing gemstone Jewellery while swimming or showering as harsh chemicals in water can damage them.

What is the best way to store gemstone Jewellery?

Store your gemstone Jewellery in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat to prevent any damage or discoloration. Remember to keep them separate to avoid scratching each other.