Since gemstones (especially diamonds) can scratch each other as well as damage metal, a jewellery item when stored should not come in direct contact with another jewellery item. Each item should be kept in a separate compartment in a jewellery case or stored in individual pouches.

You should not swim or bath with jewellery as any chlorine present in the water will pit and damage the metal and may eventually cause stones to fall out of their settings.

For jewellery set with many small stones, which is worn regularly, it is worthwhile to have your jeweler check for any loose stones at least once a year.

Settings such as the Eternity ring where the stones are completely encircling the ring, must be treated with special care when they are worn as the bottom area is more vulnerable to wear and tear.

Pearls should be cleaned regularly with warm soapy water in order to avoid any discolouration due to perfumes and body oils.

Common Methods for Cleaning Gems & Jewellery

Lint Free Cloths – Loose gemstones and jewellery can be cleaned using a lint-free cloth. These cloths are readily available at jewellery supply stores. The items should be cleaned using the rough textured side of the cloth. The side of the cloth used for cleaning gems & jewellery should not be touched with your fingers and the cloths should be washed occasionally.  

 

Warm Water, Mild Soap and a Soft Toothbrush  - Jewellery can be cleaned safely and effectively by rinsing it in warm water and brushing it gently with a soft tooth brush and mild soap. The jewellery should be rinsed afterwards in hot water or ethyl alcohol. Do not use toothpaste or tooth powder however, as they can contain abrasives which could scratch the metal.

 

Commercial Jewellery Cleaning Solutions  - these solutions which are often ammonia based are ideal for cleaning diamond and most other gemstone jewellery but should not be used to clean Pearls. Ammonia based solutions are suitable for cleaning and brightening metals especially yellow gold.

 

Ultrasonic Cleaners – Most retail jewelers are equipped with ultrasonic cleaners which have the distinct advantage of being able to reach and remove dirt from hard-to- reach places in jewellery items. It is also a convenient alternative to hand cleaning. The ultrasonic cleaner can be used to clean Sapphire and Diamond jewellery but should not be used to clean jewellery containing softer stones such as Emeralds, Opals and Pearls.