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MAPLE Guide to Cleaning Gemstone Jewelry
Dating as far back as ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks or Romans, gemstones have been a central element in many pieces of jewelry. Today, gemstones are valued for their beauty, symbolism, and cultural significance in jewelry across the world.
Each gemstone differs in their rarity, colour & durability. These factors influence their value, how they are used, and how they should be cleaned and cared for.
MAPLE carries a variety of jewelry with different gemstones/synthetics including Abalone, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Emerald, Enamel, Garnet, Labradorite, Lapis Lazuli, Mother of Pearl, Onyx, Resin, Ruby, Sapphire, Tiger Eye, Topaz, Turquoise & Zircon.
Caring for Your Jewelry
General Maintenance
Regular cleaning & polishing is recommended. Methods change depending on the gemstone & metal.
Jewelry can oxidize over time by exposure to the air so storing in a cloth lined jewelry box is recommended to minimize tarnishing. Storing harder gemstones separate from softer ones is recommended to avoid scratching or chipping.
If you're jewelry has gemstones, check regularly for loose settings or gemstones. If you notice any issues take to a jeweller for repair.
What to Avoid
Never wear your jewelry in the swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi or shower.
Remove while cleaning, as harsh chemicals can dull the stones or damage metal settings.
Apply beauty products (lotions, perfumes, hairsprays or cosmetics) or sunscreen prior to wearing your jewelry to minimize contact with the metal & stones.
It's best to remove your jewelry during physical activity as sweat can damage the stones & can scratch the metal.
Cleaning Guide
This is the most safe and effective way to clean your Gemstone jewelry.
Materials Needed:
- Mild dish soap
- Warm Water
- Soft, lint free cloth or Microfiber cloth
- Soft-bristled toothbrush
- Bowl for soaking (optional, depending on the gemstone)
- Dry towel or cloth for drying
Steps:
- Ensure you gemstones or settings are not damaged.
- Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl.
- Depending on the gemstone, the soaking time can differ. See the soaking times here.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to gently scrub the jewelry. Do not scrub too hard.
- Rinse under warm water removing soap residue.
- Pat the jewelry dry with a lint-free cloth or let it air dry on a clean towel. Be sure to dry thoroughly, especially around the setting, to prevent moisture from weakening the metal.
| Gemstone or Synthetic | Durability | Soak Time in Soapy Water |
|---|---|---|
| Abalone | Soft, organic, fragile | Do not soak (clean with a damp cloth) |
| Amethyst | Moderately durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Aquamarine | Fairly durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Emerald | Fairly durable | 1-2 minutes (avoid soaking) |
| Enamel | Fragile, can chip | Do not soak (wipe gently with damp cloth) |
| Garnet | Moderately durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Labradorite | Moderately durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Lapis Lazuli | Soft & porous | Do not soak (clean with a damp cloth) |
| Mother of Pearl | Very soft & organic | Do not soak (clean with a damp cloth) |
| Onyx | Fairly durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Resin | Depends on the type of resin | Do not soak (wipe gently with damp cloth) |
| Ruby | Very durable | 5-10 minutes |
| Sapphire | Very durable | 5-10 minutes |
| Tiger Eye | Moderately durable | 2-5 minutes |
| Topaz | Durable but can chip | 2-5 minutes |
| Turquoise | Soft & Porous | Do not soak (clean with a damp cloth) |
| Zircon | Moderately Durable | 2-5 minutes |
Cleaning Gemstones
FAQ
Can I use a steam cleaner or an ultrasonic cleaner to clean my jewelry?
Yes, you can for Silver 925 items.
However, we strongly recommend against using these cleaners for 14K Gold Plated products as you risk stripping the layer.
Also, if you're jewelry has gemstones, do not use either as you can damage or crack the stone, loosen the settings or remove any coating or treatment on the stone.
How do I clean tarnished Gemstone jewelry?
In cases of heavy oxidation, we always recommend to take your jewelry to a professional jeweller. Or you can buy a jewellery cleaner and follow the instructions on the label. There are at home methods using baking soda, but try at your own risk.
Do not use the baking soda method on jewelry with gemstones.
How can I disinfect my jewelry without damaging it?
The safest way to disinfect your gemstone jewelry without damaging it is by following the cleaning guide steps above.
Rubbing alcohol is generally safe for hard gemstones as well as Hydrogen Peroxide. However, they should not be used frequently as it maybe have a bleaching effect and cause long-term damage to the jewelry.
For soft & porous gemstones, we would not recommend using either rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
Are there any cleaning solutions that I should avoid?
We do not recommend using bleach, ammonia, vinegar, lemon juice or toothpaste. These solutions can cause oxidation, discolouration, strip away layer or scratch the gold.
