Blog
Looking after your GemsPosted on Sunday Dec 12 9:06:00 UTC 2010
I use many different precious and semi-precious stones along
with freshwater pearls within my designs, and looking after and keeping them
sparkling clean is one of the many tasks I do regularly. All gemstones should be stored separately
from each other as the more delicate ones can get scratched by the harder
stones and special care needs to be taken with certain stones. It helps to keep stones clean for longer if
you put your jewellery on after you’ve finished with all sprays and lotions,
then at then at the end of the night (or the next morning) gently wipe off with
a clean cloth.
For all gems it is best to clean regularly and use a mild
soap (natural soap flakes) and water, wipe dry with a soft cloth and leave out
to dry fully before putting away. Pearls and opals are very soft and
porous so should be treated with extra care – never use any chemicals or leave
soaking.
Ultrasonic is also a popular method for cleaning jewellery. They work by using high frequency sound waves, this causes the fluid to vibrate, which helps to remove dirt. Ultrasonic cleaning is not suitable for a lot of gemstones: never use ultrasonic cleaning for the following gemstones; · Opals · Pearls · Tanzanite · Topaz ·
Tourmaline Some gemstones are also susceptible to heat changes - Citrine, emerald, tanzanite, topaz and tourmaline are some that are at risk of fracturing if exposed to extreme or sudden temperature change. High heat can also effect the colouring of citrine, topaz and tourmaline. A little care often is the best way to keep those rocks sparkling through the party season.
|
