How to Clean Some Gemstones

Taking proper care of your gemstones will ensure they last for generations. Periodically cleaning your gemstones is an important step in ensuring their beauty. Over time, gemstones can accumulate dirt, grime and dust from constant handling. But after you clean them, your gems will sparkle as if they were new. Although gemstones are very durable, you should always clean them very carefully to avoid damage.

Instructions

1

Fill a large bowl with warm water and a few drops of a mild liquid soap. Place any hard gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires and rubies in this solution to soak for several minutes. In general, transparent gemstones are considered hard while opaque ones are considered soft. If you are unsure whether a gemstone is hard or soft, it is best to err on the side of caution and assume they are soft.

2

Wipe any soft or organic gemstones with a lint-free, moist cloth. Gem stones like turquoise, lapis lazuli, malachite and amber are porous and so should not be treated with any chemicals or soap, since this can lead to damage. Set them aside on a cloth to dry.

3

Scrub the jewelry in the soapy water with a soft toothbrush. Plan special attention to the gem's setting, removing any dirt that may be lodged behind the stone. Rinse the jewelry in warm water and pat dry. Place the gems on the cloth with the other stones to dry completely.

4

Store your gemstones in separate jewelry bags to prevent future dirt buildup and damage.