A diamond can survive almost anything. Most colored gemstones cannot — or rather, they each have their own tolerances and vulnerabilities. Understanding these differences is the single most important thing you can do to protect your collection.
The Universal Rules
These apply to every gemstone in every setting:
- Apply cosmetics first, jewelry last. Perfume, lotion, hairspray, and sunscreen all leave residues that dull stones and attack metal.
- Store pieces individually. Harder stones scratch softer ones. Even stones of equal hardness can abrade each other. Soft cloth pouches or individual compartments prevent damage.
- Remove before swimming, cleaning, and cooking. Chlorine attacks gold and some gemstones. Heat can damage treated stones. Grease dulls everything.
Stone-by-Stone Care Guide
Sapphire & Ruby (Corundum Family)
These are the easiest colored gemstones to care for. At 9 on the Mohs scale, they're exceeded only by diamonds in hardness. Clean with warm soapy water, a soft brush, or even an ultrasonic cleaner (unless the stone is fracture-filled or heavily included). Corundum handles everyday wear beautifully.
Emerald
Requires the most careful handling of the Big Three. Most emeralds are oiled or resin-filled to improve appearance — ultrasonic cleaners and steamers will strip these treatments. Clean only with a damp soft cloth or, at most, lukewarm water with mild soap. Never soak. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Tanzanite
Moderately durable at 6.5-7 on Mohs. Its main vulnerability is its perfect cleavage — a sharp impact in the wrong direction can split the stone. Protect from knocks. Clean gently with soapy water. Remove before any physical activity.
Tourmaline
Good hardness (7-7.5) but can be sensitive to heat. Clean with soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage stones with internal fractures. Paraíba tourmalines are especially valuable — treat them accordingly.
Opal
Opals contain water — typically 3-10% by weight. They can crack if they dry out (especially in dry climates or near heating vents) or if exposed to sudden temperature changes. Never use ultrasonic cleaners. Wipe with a damp cloth. Store with a small cup of water nearby in very dry environments.
Pearl
Organic gems that dissolve in acid — including the mild acids in perspiration. Wipe with a damp cloth after every wearing. Restring pearls every 1-2 years if worn frequently. Store flat (not hanging). The old advice to "wear your pearls often" is true — the oils in your skin give pearls a gentle luster over time.
Professional Maintenance
Annual checkups with a jeweler are worth the effort:
- Prong inspection — loose prongs risk losing your stone.
- Professional cleaning reaches areas home methods miss.
- Emeralds may need re-oiling every few years.
- White gold settings need periodic rhodium replating.
At Bijolina, we offer complimentary cleaning and inspection for any piece purchased from us — for its lifetime. Your gemstones deserve professional care, and so do you.
