slide 1: 5 Things To Remember While Using
Gemstone Jewellery
Gemstones are actually mineral-crystals which are cut polished valued and graded. After
this they are made into jewellery that varies in price according to the gemstones’ grade and
corresponding value. But all gemstones need to be maintained and cared for to ensure that
they remain ‘usable’ for a long time. This means maintaining their original beauty as well as
exquisiteness and the points stated below help to do just that.
1. Natural and Unnatural Light as well as Heat can Cause Damage
Prolonged exposure to light including sunlight can damage gemstones. It adversely affects
their colour which either fades or gets bleached or even darkens. Additionally heat has a
role to play in this regard along with light. The two together in a large amount also have
negative effects upon durability of gemstones. They cause cracks and discolouration due to
loss of optimal moisture level required to retain their natural beauty. Their natural beauty
includes their original colour lustre and shine.
2. Various Chemicals can Also Cause Damage
Unfortunately various chemicals including those in commonly-used-items like perfume
cause damage. Even prior to going for a swim removal of all gemstones is recommended as
chlorine causes surface damage or ‘pitting. Additionally certain cleaners or solvents that
contain ammonia or other chemicals have similar damaging effects.
3.What are Called “Ultrasonic Cleaners” can Additionally Cause Damage
This is a special machine used to clean gemstones but the machine’s vibration can chip them.
It is notsuitable for gemstones that are heat-treated have been filled because of surface
cracks and other reasons too. However exact reasons related to each gemstone is known by
knowledgeable professionally-trained jewellers only. Theyadditionally know the correct
techniques for cleaning each of them without causing damage. For these reasons “ultrasonic
cleaners” are recommended only for them.
4. A Combination of Lukewarm Water Mild Soap and Soft Brushesare the Best Cleaning
Tools at Home
This is recommended as the safest cleaning method which is not difficult either. Only some
patience is required as after cleaning in the soap-water solution they must be rinsed
thoroughly. For both cleaning and rinsing separate transparent containers can be used. This
prevents damage as sink surfaces are hard. This also lessens the risk of losing them as they
can easily slip through the sink-drain.
slide 2: 5. Storing them Properly is Equally Important
For storage a well madecompartmentalized and covered jewellery box is the best option.
This prevents gemstones from being scratched as each can be kept in a separate
compartment. If this is not possible they can even be kept in the same compartment but a
certain distance apart.
Thus a good jewellery box protects gemstones from damage caused by light heat and
various chemicals. They have cushioning and padding and their design sensor space between
gemstones including natural agate. This prevents damage from hard surfaces and collision
and preserves their natural beauty.