As a gem and jewelry expert for Shelby Gem Factory, I’ve had the privilege of working with a wide array of stunning natural and synthetic gemstones. From the rarest diamonds to the most vibrant moissanite and mesmerizing cubic zirconia, the world of gems is a true wonderland. But like any precious treasure, these gemstone beauties require careful attention and maintenance to preserve their luster for generations to come.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my top tips and insights on gem cutting and polishing, design and setting ideas, birthstones, and the often-complex science behind lab-grown stones. Whether you’re a seasoned jewelry collector or just starting to build your first gemstone treasure trove, these strategies will help you keep your Shelby Gems sparkling like new.
Gemstone Preservation
At the heart of any dazzling piece of jewelry lies the gemstone itself. From the rarest diamond to the most vibrant synthetic moissanite, each gem has unique properties that require specialized care.
Gemstone Types
Shelby Gems encompasses a diverse range of natural and laboratory-created stones, each with their own distinct qualities. Our natural precious stones like diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are prized for their remarkable hardness, brilliance, and clarity. On the other hand, our semi-precious stones such as amethyst, citrine, and topaz offer a more affordable yet still dazzling option.
We also proudly feature an impressive selection of synthetic gemstones, which are created in specialized labs to mimic the look and properties of their natural counterparts. These include moissanite – a silicon carbide stone that rivals diamonds in fire and brilliance – as well as cubic zirconia, a zirconium oxide crystal with unparalleled clarity.
Gemstone Properties
Regardless of origin, each gemstone has defining physical characteristics that dictate how it should be handled and maintained. Hardness, measured on the Mohs scale, indicates a gem’s resistance to scratching or chipping. Diamonds, for example, rank a solid 10, making them exceptionally durable. Softer stones like opals (Mohs 5-6.5) require more delicate care.
Luster – the quality of a gem’s shine – is another crucial factor. Highly polished stones like moissanite and cubic zirconia exhibit a brilliant, shimmering luster, while opals and pearls have a more subtle, almost silky sheen. Proper cleaning and storage techniques can preserve this essential radiance.
Finally, clarity refers to the presence and visibility of internal imperfections, known as inclusions. Flawless, eye-clean stones are the most valuable, while slightly included gems can still be beautiful when set skillfully.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your gemstones in pristine condition requires a delicate touch and the right cleaning methods. Harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbing, and improper storage can quickly dull the luster or even damage the stones.
Cleaning Methods
For routine cleaning, an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner is an excellent, hassle-free option. These devices use high-frequency sound waves to gently dislodge dirt and oil buildup without risking scratches or chips. Just be cautious with softer stones like opals, pearls, and emeralds, which can be vulnerable to the vibrations.
Gentle scrubbing with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a mild soap solution is also a safe bet for most gems. Avoid using anything abrasive, as this can compromise the polished surface. When in doubt, consult a professional jeweler or gemologist for guidance on the best cleaning approach for your specific gemstones.
Storage Techniques
Proper storage is key to preserving your gems’ brilliance long-term. Always keep each piece in a separate pouch, box, or compartment to prevent scratching from other jewelry. Acid-free, tarnish-resistant materials like cotton, silk, or specialized gem boxes are ideal.
Temperature and humidity levels are also crucial – gemstones thrive in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight. Fluctuations in heat and moisture can cause discoloration, cloudiness, or even internal cracks over time.
Jewelry Care
Beyond the gems themselves, the jewelry settings and mountings also require regular inspection and maintenance. Checking for worn prongs, loose clasps, or other structural issues can help you catch problems early before they compromise the piece’s integrity.
Setting Inspection
Over time, the metal prongs, bezels, or other settings that hold your gems in place can become worn, bent, or damaged. Regularly examine each piece, gently tugging on the stones to ensure they’re securely fastened. If a prong seems loose, have a professional jeweler reinforce or replace it before the gem works its way free.
Clasps on necklaces, bracelets, and rings should also be checked periodically for smooth, reliable function. Even the finest jewelry can fail without proper clasp care.
Gemstone Resetting
Perhaps your favorite piece is a hand-me-down featuring an heirloom gemstone. Or maybe you’ve discovered a stunning vintage ring that needs some TLC. Skilled gemstone resetting can breathe new life into these treasured items.
Our expert jewelers can carefully remove stones, clean and inspect the settings, then professionally remount the gems for a secure, dazzling result. We can also update the style by resetting stones in a modern design, preserving the past while giving your jewelry a fresh, contemporary look.
Expert Guidance
When it comes to your most valuable gemstone possessions, it pays to consult the experts. Professional appraisals, certification, and advanced testing can provide crucial insights into authenticity, condition, and care requirements.
Professional Appraisals
A professional gemological appraisal is an invaluable tool for assessing the true worth of your gems. Our team of certified gemologists can meticulously inspect each stone, evaluating its carat weight, color, clarity, and cut quality to determine its monetary and historical value. This detailed analysis helps you make informed decisions about insurance, security, and any necessary repairs or upgrades.
Gemological Laboratories
For the most comprehensive gemstone analysis, we recommend seeking out the services of an accredited gemological laboratory. Institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and American Gem Society (AGS) employ advanced testing methods to precisely determine a gem’s identity, origin, and any potential treatments.
These expert assessments go far beyond standard visual inspection, utilizing techniques like spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, and infrared analysis. The resulting certification documents provide an authoritative record of your gem’s unique properties and authenticity.
Whether you’re a passionate collector, jewelry aficionado, or simply looking to preserve a family heirloom, proper care and maintenance is essential for keeping your gemstone treasures sparkling for generations. From delicate cleaning to expert resetting, our team at Shelby Gem Factory is dedicated to helping you unlock the full brilliance and beauty of these natural and synthetic wonders. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive gemstone services.
