Jewelry Info
Diamond Care
Diamonds are among the most sought-after and romantic gemstones on the planet. Since ancient times diamonds have been used for decorative items, with some of the earliest references tracing back to India. Most famously desired for engagement rings, diamonds have symbolized undying love since the 15th century. To ensure these treasures maintain the stone's brilliance and sparkle, follow these instructions on how to clean diamonds. Soak the diamonds in warm water with a mild detergent and gently scrub the gem with a soft brush. To further restore diamonds to their original breathtaking luster dry your stone with a soft cloth. If you desire professional care, take your diamonds to an accredited jeweler who can use an ultrasonic jewelry cleaner, which utilizes a mixture of water and high frequency waves, to completely polish and transform your piece. It is wise to have professional diamond care and cleaning once a year, so that your jeweler can inspect the settings, prongs and stones to ensure they remain secure.
Emerald Care
Emeralds have been coveted the world over for more than 4,000 years for their rich luster and vivid color. This alluring gem has adorned the crowns of royals and embellished the thrones of some of the most respected dynasties in history, including Cleopatra. Emeralds occasionally require care to maintain their luster. Emeralds have traditionally been oiled to protect their structure and to diminish visual inclusions so they require a gentle touch when being cared for. To restore the shine of emerald jewelry use lukewarm water and a dampened cloth or a soft brush. Thoroughly drying these gems with a soft, dry cloth will further enhance their radiance and sparkle. Emeralds cannot sustain the pressure of ultrasonic jewelry cleaners, and harsh chemicals should also be avoided. Store emeralds in individual compartments to prevent scratches that can occur when they come in contact with other gems.
Sapphire Care
Since 8000 BC, Sapphires have been prized as illustrious gemstones. Ancient rulers of Persia believed the earth rested on a giant sapphire and its reflections colored the sky. Some religions believed the intense color of the sapphire represented the heavens. Worn by Princess Diana as her engagement ring gemstone, sapphires are considered to be the symbol of pure and wise rulers. As one of the hardest and most durable gemstones, sapphires can endure more intensity when it comes to rejuvenating these gemstones. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used on sapphires, but avoid these cleaners if your sapphire jewelry is set with stones other than diamonds or rubies. Household ammonia cleaning solution diluted at least 50 percent with lukewarm water makes an ideal cleaning solution for sapphires and leaves them without a haze. After making the solution, soak sapphires for 10 to 20 minutes, and rub them with a soft brush. Wipe with a soft cloth. Do not use an ammonia cleaning solution if soft and porous gems such as pearls or opals are also faceted to your jewelry.
Ruby Care
Considered one of the precious stone family along with sapphires, emeralds, natural pearls and diamonds, Rubies are envied for their rich red color. The history of the ruby is steeped in medicine and mystery and for centuries rubies were used to cure ailments and bring valor to warriors. Once known as the “king of gems,” ruby jewelry is still popularly enjoyed among royals including Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, who received a ruby engagement ring from Prince Andrew. Rubies possess a resilient exterior and ultrasonic jewelry cleaners, can aid in rejuvenating these exquisite gems. You can also soak your rubies in warm soapy water for ten minutes before using a soft brush to clean their exterior. Rinse your precious stone with water and dry with a soft towel.