Let’s be honest—our jewelry does more than just sit pretty. It tells stories, marks milestones and adds that finishing touch when nothing else will do. But while we adore the sparkle, we often forget that even the most dazzling gems need a little TLC to keep shining bright.
Whether it’s the ring you never take off or the necklace that only comes out for special occasions, knowing how to care for your gemstone jewelry isn’t just practical—it’s part of loving them well. Consider this your cheat sheet to keeping your jewels as timeless as your style.
Why Gemstone Jewelry Care Matters
Gemstones come in a range of hardness, porosity and chemical sensitivity. A one-size-fits-all routine won’t work. Understanding how to take care of gemstone jewelry depends on knowing what each stone needs. The specific care needs of each stone help preserve their brilliance and structure, and ensure you don’t unintentionally shorten their lifespan.
- Harder gemstones like diamonds, sapphires and rubies are more resistant to general wear. But their brilliance can still fade if dirt, oil and residue build up on their surfaces or behind the settings. And while durable, they aren’t immune to damage, especially if prongs loosen or they’re exposed to harsh chemicals like chlorine.
- Moderately durable stones such as emerald, amethyst, garnet and citrine are suitable for regular wear but are more prone to surface abrasions and internal fractures. For instance, emeralds may contain natural inclusions that make them more brittle and sensitive to temperature shifts. Neglecting proper care can lead to visible damage or diminished clarity.
- Softer or porous gems like opals, pearls and turquoise are particularly vulnerable. These stones can easily absorb moisture, oils or chemicals, which may cause cloudiness, discoloration, or cracking. Pearls, for example, are made of calcium carbonate and can lose their luster when exposed to acidic substances or dry environments. Opals may dehydrate and crack without proper moisture-preserving storage.
Treating your jewelry with the right level of care is the most effective way to maintain both its appearance and value.
How to Care for Gemstone Jewelry
Here’s a detailed chart on cleaning, maintaining and storing some of the most popular gemstones.
| Category | Gemstones | Care | Cleaning | Maintenance | Storage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durable & Low Maintenance | Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Ruby | These gemstones rank high on durability. They can handle regular wear but still benefit from routine cleaning and secure settings. | Safe to clean with mild soap and water or soft brushes. Diamond and sapphire can handle ultrasonic or steam cleaning. | Inspect settings regularly, especially prongs. | Store separately to avoid scratching softer stones. |
| Moderately Durable & Medium Maintenance | Garnet, Amethyst, Citrine, Morganite, Emerald | These gems are suitable for frequent wear with care. Emeralds, while hard, are brittle and require extra caution. | Warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush are ideal. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme heat. | Inspect for surface wear or setting issues. Emeralds may need re-oiling by professionals over time. | Use soft-lined boxes or pouches to prevent scratches or chipping. Store away from harder gemstones. |
| Delicate & High Maintenance | Tanzanite, Moonstone, Turquoise, Fire Opal, Pearl | These gems are soft, porous or sensitive to heat, chemicals or dryness. They need gentle, occasional wear and special care. | Avoid ultrasonic cleaning. Use a soft, damp cloth or mild soap with lukewarm water. Pearls and turquoise should never be soaked. | Regular professional checkups are recommended. Pearls may need restringing; fire opals benefit from oiling. | Store flat or in individual pouches. Keep away from dry environments, humidity, or airtight containers. |
Watch this video for a quick recap on how to clean your gemstone jewelry at home:
Gemstone Jewelry Care: Practical Everyday Tips
In addition to following stone-specific care, a few good habits will go a long way in preserving your jewelry:
- Remove jewelry before housework, workouts, bathing or swimming. Water, sweat and cleaning products can damage settings or stones.
- Avoid direct contact with perfumes, lotions, hairsprays and makeup.
- Gently clean your jewelry every 1–2 weeks if worn regularly.
- Schedule professional cleanups and inspections every 6-12 months, especially for rings or frequently worn items.
Gemstone Jewelry That Lasts, Backed by Expert Care at Angara
At Angara, we believe your jewelry should be designed to last a lifetime and we stand by that promise. That’s why every piece comes with a Certificate of Authenticity outlining the gem’s quality and characteristics. This ensures complete transparency and confidence in your purchase.
We also offer a lifetime warranty with every new jewelry piece, with complimentary cleaning and inspection services to help keep your ring in top shape—because your jewelry deserves more than just sparkle; it deserves expert care.
Our gemologists carefully inspect for signs of wear, secure loose stones and restore shine using safe, specialized tools that go beyond what home methods can do. It’s all part of our commitment to helping your jewelry hold its meaning and its beauty for years to come.
Learn more about Angara’s lifetime warranty and care services.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ultrasonic cleaners for all gemstones?
No. Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for hard stones like diamonds and sapphires but can damage softer, treated, or porous gemstones like emeralds, pearls and opals.
2. How often should I clean my gemstone jewelry?
For pieces you wear often, aim to clean them every 1 to 2 weeks. Occasional wearers can be cleaned monthly.
3. Should I store all gemstone jewelry together?
Ideally, no. Harder gemstones can scratch softer ones. Store each piece separately in soft pouches or lined compartments.
4. How can I keep my gemstones looking shiny over time?
Clean them regularly, avoid exposure to chemicals and sunlight and have the settings inspected to keep them secure and sparkling.
