Home Cleaning Solutions:
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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Always consult a professional jeweler when you have a question or are unsure about cleaning gems or jewelry.
Some Tips for Cleaning Your Jewelry
While ultrasonic cleaners may be the fastest method for cleaning jewelry, they can also be the quickest way to damage your gemstone. A responsible jeweler will carefully inspect a gemstone before s/he subjects to ultrasonic cleaning. He will be looking for microscopic or obvious fractures.
One advantage of ultrasonic cleaning is the solution used. These expensive "secret formula" products may be little more that common ammonia. Sudsy ammonia solutions are sold as common cleaning products. In the US they are sold under trade names such as "409" and "Fantastic".
Off-the-shelf products will normally work just as well as the secret formula solutions.
Cleaning Your Jewelry
Let it soak overnight
Warming the solution speeds the process
Brush off any grime with an old toothbrush
Rinse well
** Cautions: Never put a heat sensitive gem in a hot solution. An opal might fracture.
** Don't clean pearls or other porous gems with a chemical solution
Silver Polish
Use a non-metallic container
Line the bottom with aluminum foil
Fill with hot water
Add a handful of washing soda
Place your silver items in the container so they are in contact with the aluminum foil
The tarnish will fade in a few minutes.
Remove your silver from the solution and, using a soft towel, buff them dry.
** Notes:
If you let them air dry they will not have the required luster
Use with silver plated or solid silver
** The method works well with most items, but not all
While we have made every effort to convey accurate and safe information, we assume no responsibility for any damage to your possessions. If you have any doubts whatsoever about the safety of cleaning any jewelry item, a professional jeweler should be consulted.
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