How to Care for Your Gemstone Jewellery

Fine gemstone jewellery is made to be worn and enjoyed. With mindful care, it retains its brilliance and structural integrity for decades — even generations. The care routine depends on the gemstone, the setting and how you live with the piece.

Daily Habits

Put jewellery on after applying perfume, hairspray or lotion. Remove rings before household cleaning, gardening, exercise or swimming. Chlorine and harsh chemicals can damage both metal and certain gemstones. A soft pouch or lined box prevents scratches when pieces are not being worn.

Cleaning at Home

For most durable stones (sapphire, ruby, diamond, spinel): warm water, a drop of mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. For softer or treated stones (emerald, opal, pearl, turquoise): wipe gently with a damp cloth only — no soaking, no brushes, no ultrasonic cleaners.

Professional Maintenance

Have prongs, bezels and clasps checked annually. A loose setting risks stone loss. Professional ultrasonic cleaning is safe for many stones but can damage fracture-filled emeralds, opals and other sensitive materials — always tell your jeweller what the stone is.

Storage Wisdom

Store pieces separately. Harder stones scratch softer ones; diamonds scratch everything. Individual soft pouches or compartmentalised boxes are ideal. For sterling silver, anti-tarnish strips help maintain the metal's lustre.

Stone-Specific Notes

• Emeralds: Often oil-treated. Avoid heat, ultrasonic and steam cleaning.
• Opals: Contain water. Avoid extreme dryness or rapid temperature changes.
• Pearls: Organic. Wipe after each wear. Restring periodically.
• Sapphires & Rubies: Very durable. Safe for most cleaning methods.

Have a piece that needs attention? Get in touch — we can advise on the best care approach for your specific jewellery.