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Extend the life of the careful cleaning jewelry

From inexpensive baubles to family heirlooms, jewelry reflects new trends and moments precious life of a woman. Careless treatment of any type of jewelry, however, shortens its life, the value and beauty. Careful cleaning of jewelry extends the wear and the value of a collection.

Gemstone

Gemstones are a popular choice for jewelry aficionados for their beauty. Also are some of the most durable choices for jewelry. However, care and maintenance are important factors in maintaining its good looks and value. Some gemstones such as sapphires, rubies and other gems of a single crystal can be cleaned with a precise mixture of ammonia and water to remove any film that may be present and to restore polishing the stone. mild soap and warm water can also provide a safe mixture to clean specific gemstones. If a piece of jewelry with precious stones extra cleaning needs may be possible to employ the use of a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone.

When it comes to ultrasonic cleaners, be highly selective. Not all gemstones can be safely cleaned with this method. Opaque gemstones such as lapis lazuli, turquoise or malachite should never be cleaned with ammonia or an ultrasonic cleaner. These stones can absorb chemicals or soap, resulting in discoloration, due to the porous composition these gems. Instead, these gemstones should be cleaned with a damp cloth.

To avoid scratching a gemstone or another softer stone near it, keep all jewelry separate from one another. Also, remember that gemstones are often harder than the metal it is set. Gems can scratch the finish of gold, silver or platinum.

Diamonds

The hardest substance known to man, diamonds, need special care because some of the gems are used more often. Lotions, styling products, and the accumulated grime of daily use can leave a diamond dull and lifeless. Avoid waiting too long in between cleanings to reduce adverse material accumulation.

Diamonds may be hard but should not be cleaned with just any cleaner available. For diamonds on the need well cleaning, a professional ultrasonic cleaning is often necessary to remove encrusted dirt. However, the method should not be used in settings without fragile been inspected by your jeweler, as ultrasonic cleaner may shake loose stones from their mounting.

A safe and gentle method for cleaning Diamond begins with soaking the piece in a formula of three parts water to one part ammonia and a drop of mild liquid detergent such as ivory. Use a soft brush to remove dirt. Do not use a stiff brush as this will scratch the metal ring adjustment. Rinse the diamond thoroughly in warm water and follow up with a lint-free to dry the piece.

The store of diamonds in a jeweler's cloth lined or in a box with different compartments. Diamonds may also be involved individually in tissue paper and stored in a box. No other diamond jewelry store in a drawer or jewelry box. This can result in scratching of other jewelry. Perhaps most importantly, do not leave a diamond ring on the edge of a sink where it can slip down the drain.

Pearls

The pearls are fragile than most other gemstones. They should be handled with care to keep them in top condition. Most pearls today are cultured pearls. That means that have been created by the onset of human beings a bead or other object into an oyster. The oyster covers the bead with nacre, the patina that gives it its appearance beloved pearls. The thickness of nacre dictates the quality and durability of the pearl.

A good rule of thumb to maintain the beauty and value of your pearls is: your pearls should always be the last thing you put on and the first thing when you take off your dress. To maintain the luster of a pearl, avoid applying hand creams or lotions while wearing a pearl. Also, put a pearl in hairspray after using the makeup or perfume. When cleaning a pearl, use mild soap mixed in warm water. Solutions like ammonia or harsh detergents can damage a pearl, like an ultrasonic cleaner.

Because pearls can scratch easily, store them separately other pieces of jewelry. Pearls can also be kept in a soft cloth bag made for safe storage. It's a good idea to have pearl necklaces restrung from time time to make sure the silk or nylon cable them are in good shape.

About the Author

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of
Pandora Jewelry
. Pandora bracelets, Pandora charms and Pandora beads are only a part of the collection. For more information, Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit the website.