Proper daily care is essential for maintaining the beauty of your gemstone jewelry. Always remove jewelry before engaging in household chores, gardening, or sports activities. Even durable stones like diamonds can chip if struck at the right angle. Keep your gems away from harsh chemicals found in cleaning products, chlorinated pools, and hot tubs. When not wearing your pieces, store them separately in soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes to prevent scratching as different gemstones can damage one another.
Most gemstones benefit from gentle cleaning with mild soap, warm water, and a soft toothbrush. However, certain stones require special attention. Porous gems like pearls, opals, and turquoise should never be soaked and should only be wiped with a damp cloth. Emeralds, with their natural inclusions called "jardins," often contain oils that can be stripped away by ultrasonic cleaners. Diamonds and sapphires, being more durable, can withstand more thorough cleaning methods, including brief exposure to mild commercial jewelry cleaners.
Even with careful home care, professional maintenance is recommended periodically. A professional jeweler can check for loose settings, clean areas you can't reach, and identify potential issues before they become problems. For valuable pieces, consider having them professionally cleaned and inspected every 6-12 months. Many jewelers offer complimentary cleaning services for pieces purchased from their establishments, taking advantage of these services extends the life and beauty of your jewelry.
The setting of your gemstone jewelry affects how you should care for it. Pavé settings, with their many small stones, can trap soap and lotion, requiring more frequent cleaning with a soft brush. Prong settings should be checked regularly for bending or wear that might compromise stone security. Bezel settings, which fully encircle the gemstone, offer more protection but may accumulate dirt around the edges. For all settings, avoid catching them on clothing or knocking them against hard surfaces, as this can loosen stones over time.
For jewelry worn infrequently, proper storage is crucial. Keep pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade certain gemstones like amethyst and kunzite. Consider using anti-tarnish strips in storage containers for pieces with silver components. Individual soft pouches or compartmentalized boxes prevent pieces from scratching each other. For pearls and other organic gems, avoid airtight plastic bags which can trap moisture and cause damage. Instead, use breathable fabric pouches that protect while allowing air circulation.