Our jewelry is an investment.  It also represents the important moments in our life.  The memories last a lifetime, and fine jewelry should also.

DIAMONDS

CLEANING:  Use a soft brush and jewelry cleaning solution or warm, soapy water.  An unltrasonic cleaner may also be used.  Wipe dry with a lint-free soft cloth.

MAINTENANCE:  If worn on a regular basis, a diamond should be cleaned at home every 2-3 weeks.  And cleaned professionally every 6-9 months.  It is also a good idea to have prongs checked fo wear or possible loose stones.

TIPS:  Although diamonds are the hardest known substance, a blow of sufficient force can crack, chip or even break a diamond.  Avoid sharp blows, and don`t wear fine jewelry when doing housework, gardening, playing sports, etc.

Other Information:  When storing diamond jewelry, it is a good idea to keep diamonds separated from other stones.  This helps avoid scratches on your other jewelry.

GOLD

CLEANING:  Between professional cleanings, gold can be maintained by using a soft brush or cloth with a nonabrasive cleaner.

MAINTENANCE:  Examine jewelry regularly to make sure settings are snug and clasps and joinings are secure.

TIPS:  As with all metals, do not wear gold jewelry in swimming pools, because the chloring may cause damage over a period of time.

Other Information:  Gold is very soft in its pure form.  For example, 24k (pure gold) is softer and less scratch-resistant than 14k and 10k gold.

GEMSTONES

AMETHYST, CITRINE, GARNET, RUBY, & SAPPHIRE:  Clean with a soft brush and jewelry cleaner or warm, soapy water.  Ultrasonic cleaners may also be used.

AQUAMARINE, BLUE TOPAZ:  It`s best to use jewelry cleaner or warm soapy water and a soft brush only.  Do not use ultrasonic machines to clean these stones.

Other Information:  Amethyst, Aquamarine, and Citrine all fade or change color after prolonged exposure to the sun.

EMERALDS

CLEANING:  They may be cleaned gently with a soft brush and lukewarm water, but are best cleaned professionally by a jeweler.  It is not recommended to immerse them in cleaning solutions (never wear your emeralds in the bath, shower or when doing dishes) and ultrasonic cleaners should never be used.

TIPS:  Since treatment is not permanent, it is recommended to have emeralds professionally re-oiled every 1 to 2 years.

OPALS

CLEANING:  You may clean them with a soft brush and warm, soapy water, but never use harsh chemical cleaners or immerse in an ultrasonic cleaner.

TIPS:  Apply a thin film or light oil with a swab or cloth to the surface of the stone (never soak it) at 6 month intervals to provide an extra measure of protection against dryness and cracking.

PEARLS

CLEANING:  Wipe gently with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wearing.  although they are best maintained by professional cleaning, mild soap and water may be used.  Dry on a soft, absorbent surface, and never hang to dry.

TIPS:  Store separately from other jewselry.  Do not wear while applying makeup, hair spray, and perfumes.

PERIDOTS

CLEANING:  Use a soft brush with warm, soapy water to clean.  Avoid the use of ultrasonic cleaners.

TIPS:  Should be handled with more care than some other gemstones.  Avoid sudden changes in temperature or contact with caustic household substances.

I hope this information takes some of the mystery out of cleaning your fine jewelry.

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