Cleaning
In order to keep gems looking as vibrant and valuable as on the first day of purchase, it is very important to keep in mind a few basic rules and learn some specific cleaning techniques.
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Gems should be cleaned regularly to keep them looking their best. The safest way to clean them is by soaking loose stones or jewelry in a warm, soapy water and gently clean with a soft brush. Dry with a soft cloth. |
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Soft porous gems (pearls, coral, amber) should never be soaked. Simply wipe clean with a moist cloth. Organic gem can be damaged by improper cleaning. |
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Always consult a professional jeweler when you have a question or are unsure about cleaning gems or jewelry.
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| Gem Type | DO |
DO NOT |
| Amethyst |
Ammonia soak & brush. Ultrasonic & boiling with care. |
Strong heat & abrupt temperature changes (shocking). |
| Aquamarine |
Sonic. Ammonia soak & brush. Ultrasonic with care. |
Boiling. Acids. |
| Citrine |
Ammonia soak & brush. Boiling & ultrasonic by jeweler. |
Strong heat (may change color). |
| Kunzite |
Ammonia soak, rinse, & brush. |
Boil, ultrasonic, acid. Heat & strong light (may change color). |
| Peridot |
Ammonia soak & brush. Boil with care. |
Strong heat & abrupt temperature changes (may crack). Acid. |
| Quartz |
Ammonia soak & brush. Boiling & ultrasonic with care. |
Strong heat & abrupt temperature changes (shocking). |
| Sapphire, Ruby |
Soapy water & brush. Boiling& ultrasonic with care. |
Glass-filled stones cleaned by jeweler only. |
| Spinel |
Boiling & sonic. Ultrasonic with care. Ammonia soak & brush. |
Avoid temperature shock. Extreme heat (may fade). |
| Topaz, Imperial Topaz |
Ammonia soak & brush. |
Boil & ultrasonic. Temperature shock (will fracture). |
| Tourmaline |
Ammonia soak & brush. |
Heat, boiling, & steam (may change color).
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First Published: November-12-2006
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