How to Care for Your Gemstones: Tips to Keep Them Sparkling

Gemstones are not only beautiful additions to your jewelry collection or home decor, but they also carry a sense of timeless elegance and energy. To ensure they remain as vibrant and dazzling as the day you got them, it’s essential to care for them properly. Here’s a guide from Nature’s Own Gallery on how to keep your gemstones in pristine condition for years to come.

1. Know Your Gemstone

Every gemstone is unique and requires specific care. Some are more durable, while others are delicate and prone to scratches or damage. For example:

• Hard Stones (e.g., Diamonds, Sapphires): Extremely durable but still need regular cleaning.

• Soft or Porous Stones (e.g., Opals, Pearls): Require extra care and protection from chemicals and moisture.

• Organic Gems (e.g., Amber, Coral): Sensitive to heat and harsh chemicals.

2. Cleaning Tips for Gemstones

Proper cleaning will enhance the brilliance of your gemstones:

• Gentle Cleaning: Use warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth or toothbrush to clean most gemstones. Avoid using abrasive materials.

• Ultrasonic Cleaners: Suitable for hard stones like diamonds but avoid for softer, porous gems like turquoise or opals.

• Special Care for Porous Stones: Wipe with a damp cloth and avoid soaking to prevent water absorption.

3. Avoid Exposure to Harsh Elements

Protect your gemstones by keeping them away from:

• Chemicals: Perfumes, hairspray, and household cleaners can dull or damage gemstones.

• Direct Sunlight: Extended exposure to sunlight can fade stones like amethyst or citrine.

• Extreme Temperatures: Sudden changes in temperature can cause some gems, like opals, to crack.

4. Store Your Gemstones Safely

Proper storage is key to preventing scratches and other damage:

• Separate Storage: Store gemstones individually in soft pouches or lined jewelry boxes to avoid scratching.

• Avoid Piling Jewelry: Mixing gemstones can cause harder stones to scratch softer ones.

5. Handle with Care

• Always remove gemstone jewelry before engaging in activities like swimming, cleaning, or working with tools.

• Be mindful of how you wear your gemstones—rings, for example, are more prone to wear and tear than pendants or earrings.

6. Re-energizing Your Stones

If you believe in the metaphysical properties of gemstones, you might also want to cleanse and re-energize them:

• Smudging: Use sage or incense to cleanse the energy.

• Moonlight: Place gemstones under the moonlight to recharge them.

• Crystal Clusters: Lay your gemstones on a quartz or amethyst cluster to amplify their energy.

7. When in Doubt, Ask a Professional

Caring for your gemstones ensures they stay beautiful and radiant, whether they’re part of your jewelry or a decorative piece in your home. At Nature’s Own Gallery on Stearns Wharf, we’re always happy to share advice on caring for the treasures you find in our shop.

What gemstone care tip do you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments or visit us to learn more!