As a gem and jewelry expert at Shelby Gem Factory, I’m often asked about the best ways to maintain the beauty and brilliance of fine gemstones. Whether you’ve invested in a sparkling diamond, a mesmerizing moissanite, or a vibrant colored gemstone, proper care and handling are essential to preserving your prized jewels for years to come.
Gemstone Characteristics
Let’s start by exploring the unique properties of gemstones and how they influence their care and maintenance.
Composition and Structure
Gemstones are crystalline materials, each with a distinct chemical composition and atomic structure. Diamonds, for example, are made of pure carbon, while rubies and sapphires are composed of aluminum oxide. These differences in composition affect a gem’s hardness, durability, and optical properties.
Hardness and Durability
The Mohs hardness scale is a measure of a mineral’s resistance to scratching, with diamonds ranking at the top with a score of 10. Moissanite, the second-hardest gemstone, scores 9.5 on the Mohs scale, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear. In contrast, softer gems like pearls and opals require more careful handling to avoid chipping or cracking.
Optical Properties
Gemstones’ unique optical properties, such as refractive index, dispersion, and birefringence, contribute to their captivating visual appeal. These properties influence a gem’s brilliance, fire, and overall sparkle, which should be considered when caring for and displaying your jewels.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning and storage are essential to keeping your gemstones looking their best.
Cleaning Methods
For most gemstones, a simple warm, soapy water solution and a soft-bristled brush or cloth is the safest and most effective cleaning method. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can potentially damage soft or delicate stones. For a deeper clean, consider taking your jewelry to a professional jeweler.
Protective Measures
To protect your gemstones, avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and excessive wear during activities like gardening, swimming, or exercising. Remove your jewelry before engaging in these types of tasks. Additionally, be mindful of how you store your jewelry to prevent scratches, tangles, and other damage.
Storage Considerations
When not in use, store your gemstone jewelry in a soft, fabric-lined box or pouch to prevent scratches and maintain the gem’s luster. Avoid storing different types of gemstones together, as harder stones can potentially scratch softer ones.
Gemstone Types
Let’s explore the unique care and maintenance requirements for some of the most popular gemstone varieties.
Diamonds
As the hardest natural material on Earth, diamonds are highly resistant to scratches and chips. However, they can still be damaged by sudden impacts or exposure to harsh chemicals. Regular professional cleanings and inspections can help ensure your diamond jewelry remains in pristine condition.
Colored Gemstones
Colored gemstones, such as rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, require special care due to their varying hardness levels and sensitivity to certain chemicals. Consult with a jeweler or gemologist to determine the best cleaning and storage methods for your specific colored gemstone pieces.
Pearls
Pearls, being organic gemstones, are the most delicate of all. They are susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals, heat, and even the oils from your skin. Clean pearls gently with a soft cloth and store them separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Environmental Factors
The environment in which you wear and store your gemstone jewelry can also impact its longevity and appearance.
Temperature and Humidity
Extreme temperatures and humidity levels can cause gemstones to expand, contract, or become discolored over time. Avoid exposing your jewelry to sudden temperature changes or leaving it in direct sunlight or hot, humid environments.
Exposure to Chemicals
Household cleaners, chlorinated water, and even the acids in your skin can all potentially damage gemstones. Remove your jewelry before engaging in activities that may expose it to harmful substances.
Sunlight and Radiation
Prolonged exposure to sunlight or other forms of radiation can cause some gemstones, such as amethyst and citrine, to fade or change color over time. Store your jewelry in a cool, dark place when not in use.
Jewelry Repair and Restoration
Even with the best care, your gemstone jewelry may occasionally require professional attention.
Resizing and Refinishing
If your ring size changes or the metal in your jewelry becomes worn or tarnished, seek the help of a qualified jeweler for resizing or refinishing services. They can also repair prongs, replace clasps, and make other necessary adjustments to keep your jewelry looking its best.
Prong and Setting Maintenance
Over time, the prongs or settings holding your gemstones in place may become loose or worn. Regular inspections by a professional can help identify and address these issues before they lead to a lost stone.
Repolishing and Recut
If your gemstones have lost their original brilliance due to wear or abrasion, a professional gemologist or jeweler can sometimes repolish or recut the stones to restore their original sparkle and luster.
Gemstone Identification
Proper gemstone identification is crucial for ensuring the long-term care and value of your jewelry.
Visual Inspection
Experienced jewelers and gemologists can often identify a gemstone’s type, quality, and origin through careful visual examination, taking into account factors like color, clarity, and cut.
Gemological Testing
Advanced gemological testing, such as X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and refractive index measurements, can provide a more definitive identification of a gemstone’s composition and characteristics.
Certification and Documentation
Obtaining a gemological report or certificate from a reputable laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), can provide valuable information about your gemstone’s authenticity, quality, and provenance.
Ethical Sourcing
As consumers become increasingly conscious of the origins of their jewelry, the importance of ethical and sustainable sourcing practices has grown.
Responsible Mining Practices
Look for gemstones and jewelry that are sourced from mines and suppliers that adhere to strict environmental and labor regulations, ensuring the gems you purchase are not linked to unethical practices.
Traceability and Transparency
Many reputable jewelers and gemstone suppliers now offer information about the origins and supply chain of their products, providing customers with the assurance that their gems were obtained through responsible and transparent means.
Sustainability Initiatives
Some gemstone producers are also investing in initiatives to minimize the environmental impact of mining and processing, such as implementing water reclamation systems, reducing energy consumption, and supporting local communities.
Gemstone Appreciation
Beyond the practical aspects of gemstone care, understanding the cultural, symbolic, and investment value of your jewels can deepen your appreciation for these captivating natural wonders.
Symbolism and Meaning
Gemstones have long been associated with various cultural and spiritual meanings, with birthstones, anniversary gems, and other symbolic associations adding personal significance to your jewelry.
Collecting and Investing
For those interested in gemstone collecting or investing, proper care and documentation can help preserve the value of your gems over time, ensuring they remain a sound financial and sentimental investment.
Displaying and Showcasing
Proper storage and display of your gemstone jewelry can not only protect your prized possessions but also allow you to showcase their beauty and craftsmanship to friends, family, and future generations.
By understanding the unique characteristics and care requirements of your gemstones, you can ensure that your prized jewels remain radiant and captivating for a lifetime. Whether you’re shopping for a new piece or caring for a beloved heirloom, the team at Shelby Gem Factory is here to provide the expertise and guidance you need to make the most of your gemstone treasures.
