There’s something undeniably captivating about colored gemstones. From the deep greens of emeralds to the fiery reds of rubies, these gems have an allure that’s stood the test of time. But as stunning as they are, colored gemstones need special care to keep them shining bright. Whether you’ve inherited a cherished heirloom or treated yourself to a new treasure, knowing how to properly care for your gems is essential.
Drawing from decades of experience as a leading miner and marketer of colored gemstones, Gemfields has crafted a comprehensive guide on how to care for your gems. Gemfields is renowned for its ethical mining practices and is the majority owner and operator of both the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia and the Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique, two of the most significant sources of emeralds and rubies in the world. With that expertise, Gemfields shares essential tips to ensure your precious stones last a lifetime— and beyond.
Clean Gems Shine Brighter
First and foremost, cleanliness is key. Over time, your gemstones will accumulate dust, oils, and residue that can dull their sparkle. The best way to restore their natural brilliance is with a gentle cleaning routine. Rinse your stones in warm, mild soapy water, using a soft brush to remove any lingering dirt. Afterward, blot the gem dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. This simple practice will keep your rubies and emeralds gleaming.
Know Your Gemstone
When you purchase a gemstone, it’s important to know what treatments or processes it may have undergone. Some stones are heat-treated or filled with resins to enhance their color or durability. By asking about these treatments, you’ll have a better understanding of how to care for your gem properly. Different treatments can impact how your gemstone responds to certain cleaning methods or environmental conditions, so always ask questions before you leave the jeweler.
Handle Delicate Gems with Care
Though gemstones may appear strong, they are delicate in their own way. Like any fine jewelry, colored gemstones are vulnerable to knocks, bumps, and scratches. Always handle them with care, and be mindful of their fragility. Whether you’re wearing a simple pendant or a statement ring, treat your jewelry with respect to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Separate Storage Is a Must
Have you ever opened your jewelry box to find your favorite pieces tangled together? Not only is this frustrating, but it can cause serious damage. Gemstones and metals can scratch and scrape each other if stored too closely. To avoid this, store your gems separately in soft pouches or boxes to protect their surfaces. This will help ensure your jewelry remains in pristine condition.
Avoid Water and Harsh Chemicals
While keeping your gems clean is important, it’s best to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or unnecessary moisture. Perfumes, lotions, and makeup can contain ingredients that harm gemstones over time, causing discoloration or weakening their structure. For the same reason, avoid wearing your jewelry while bathing or swimming. Even soaps and shampoos can contain chemicals that are too harsh for certain gems, so it’s better to remove your jewelry beforehand.
Keep Jewelry Away from the Gym
It may seem harmless to wear a favorite necklace or ring to the gym, but sudden movements or impacts can seriously damage your gems. Fitness equipment, weights, and even a hard floor can spell disaster for delicate stones. To avoid accidents, leave your jewelry at home or store it safely in a soft pouch while you exercise.
Be Cautious with Ultrasonic Cleaners
While ultrasonic cleaners can be an effective way to clean certain types of jewelry, they are not recommended for gemstone pieces. The high-frequency vibrations used by these devices can agitate the inclusions found in many natural stones, potentially weakening or damaging them. Instead, a gentle bath with mild soap and water is all your gemstones need to maintain their sparkle.
Check Your Gem’s Setting
Over time, the settings that hold your gemstones in place may loosen. It’s a good idea to periodically have your jewelry checked by a reputable jeweler to ensure that your stones are secure. This is especially important for rings or other pieces that are worn regularly and may experience more wear and tear. A simple checkup can prevent the heartbreak of losing a precious stone.
Responsible Mining and Sustainability: A Gemfields Commitment
While caring for your gemstones is important, it’s also worth considering the ethical implications of where your gems come from. Gemfields has made transparency, legitimacy, and integrity its core mission. Through responsible mining practices and industry-leading sustainability efforts, they ensure that their operations have a positive impact on the environment and surrounding communities. Whether through education initiatives, healthcare programs, or wildlife conservation, Gemfields believes that gemstones should benefit the countries from which they originate.
Conclusion
Your gemstones are more than just beautiful adornments; they are treasures that, with the proper care, can last for generations. Whether it’s learning how to clean them, understanding their unique characteristics, or simply storing them safely, taking the time to care for your colored gemstones will ensure they remain just as breathtaking as the day you first wore them.
By following Gemfields’ expert advice, you’ll not only protect your investment but also honor the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating each piece. After all, with the right care, your gemstones can continue to dazzle, serving as a timeless reminder of life’s most precious moments.
For more information on Gemfields and to explore their comprehensive guides on buying, styling, and caring for colored gemstones, visit www.gemfields.com.
