Although gemstones are among the most durable of substances, they need some care. You've paid a good amount of money for some of your gemstone jewelry, so keep them clean! Think twice before putting gems in an ultrasonic cleaner, when in doubt, leave it out. Diamonds, rubies and sapphires, and other single-crystal gems can be cleaned with a touch of ammonia in water to remove all films and add extra sparkle.
Opaque gemstones like Lapis Lazuli, Turquoise, Kunzite, Peridot, Tanzanite, Malachite and some Topaz require special care.
Never use an ultrasonic cleaner and never use ammonia or any chemical solution. These gem materials should just be wiped clean gently with a moist cloth. These gemstones can be porous and may absorb chemicals, even soap, and they may build up inside the stone and discolor it.
Opals also require special care. Never use an ultrasonic, never use ammonia, and avoid heat and strong light which can dry out the water in opals.
Organic gems like Pearls, Coral, and Amber should only be wiped clean with a moist cloth. Due to their organic nature, these gems are both soft and porous.
Be careful about chemicals in hairspray, cosmetics, or perfume: they can, over time, damage pearls in particular.
Storage is also important, keep each piece of gemstone jewelry separately so that harder stones don't scratch softer ones. Almost every gemstone is much harder than the metal it is set in. Gems can scratch the finish on your gold, silver or platinum if you throw your jewelry in a heap in a drawer or jewelry box.
Remember, treat your gemstone jewelry as if you paid millions and they will last a lifetime!
