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Not all stones and metal are the same, so why clean them all the same
way? Learn more about the best ways to clean and store your favorite ring
and necklace.
Diamonds
Cleaning: Immerse in rubbing alcohol or a mixture of equal parts
ammonia and cold water for a few minutes, then gently clean with a soft
bristled bush (i.e. tooth brush). Rinse and then lay on tissue to dry.
Storage: Store each piece individually to prevent scratching
other diamonds, softer gems, or gold.
Maintenance: Avoid contact with chlorinated pools or household
cleaning products containing chlorine bleach, which may damage and discolor
the mounting. |
Pearls
Cleaning: When it is needed, wipe with a soft water-moistened cloth
to remove residue. If worn several times a week, once a year moisten
a soft clean cloth in a solution of one part mild dishwashing liquid
(such as Ivory) to 20 parts lukewarm water, and rub each pearl individually.
Wipe off with a damp, clean cloth and buff dry. Let the pearls air dry
overnight.
Storage: Never toss into a purse or jewelry box where they may
be scratched, and don't store in plastic (pearls need air to retain
their beauty). Place in a satin-lined box or chamois bag, or wrap in
tissue.
Maintenance: For greater luster, wear frequently so that natural
skin oils can be absorbed. Avoid contact with household chemicals or
chlorinated pools. Put on pearls after applying cosmetics, perfumes,
and hair spray. Avoid putting perfumes and cosmetics on the skin where
the pearls will be worn. |
Sterling Silver
Cleaning: If tarnished slightly, rinse in very hot water and pat
dry. A commercial cleaner may be needed for heavier stain. Wipe with
a clean, soft polishing cloth.
Storage: Individually store each piece in a closed box or in
a tarnish preventive bag or cloth.
Maintenance: Frequent wear helps prevent tarnishing. Don't wear
in chlorinated water, which can cause pitting. |
Gold & Platinum
Cleaning: Immerse in an ammonia and water solution for 10 to 15
minutes, then gently clean with a soft bristle brush. Rinse with lukewarm
water, then dry and buff with a soft cloth.
Storage: Individually wrap or store apart from other pieces to
avoid scratches.
Maintenance: Remove gold jewelry before showering or housework;
soap makes the jewelry appear dull. Don't wear in chlorinated water,
which can eat away at the metal. Chlorine and ammonia-based cleaners
will darken the joints if the jewelry is left too long in the solution. |
Opals
Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, clean cloth dipped in a solution of
water and a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid.
Storage: Keep wherever humidity is highest. Opals contain a lot
of water and are prone to drying out. A small amount of cold cream applied
occasionally will protect the opal and enhance its color.
Maintenance: Opals are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid
very hot or cold weather (which can shrink the stone, causing it to
fall out of its setting), direct sunlight, or dishwashing. |
Emeralds
Cleaning: Mix a few a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid in a
bowl of warm water. Immerse for no more than a few minutes and clean
with a soft bristle brush. Rinse and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Storage: Emeralds are soft bristle stones and must be stored
separately to avoid chipping. Avoid storing them in a dry environment.
Maintenance: Avoid saltwater, chlorine, solvents, and alcohol,
which will erode the finish and polish of the stones. |
Sapphires, Rubies,
Amethyst, Topaz & Quartz
Cleaning: Mix a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid in a bowl of
warm water. Immerse each piece and clean with a soft bristle brush (Sapphires
and rubies can be cleaned in an ammonia and water solution). Rinse and
pat dry with a soft cloth.
Storage: Store separately, these stones may scratch softer jewelry,
such as pearls, opals, amber and gold.
Maintenance: Don’t expose to saltwater, chlorine, or detergents,
which may slowly erode the finish and polish of the gems. |
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