Diamonds are the hardest natural precious gemstones, which means they are resistant to scratching, but they can fracture under extreme pressure. Use lukewarm water and blue Dawn to clean them. Avoid harsh cleaners, but ultrasonic cleaners may be used. Be sure and check the settings regularly.

Sapphires and rubies are the next hardest natural precious gemstones after diamonds, but can be scratched by diamonds!  Store them separately. Use lukewarm water and blue Dawn to clean these stones. Avoid harsh cleaners, but ultrasonic cleaners may be used.  Be sure and check the settings regularly.

Opals are sensitive to temperature changes. Keep them away from direct heat and freezing. Store opals in a mildly humid environment (a cloth with a drop of water) to prevent drying out. Use a soft, damp cloth to clean. Avoid soaps, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.

Turquoise is porous and will absorb chemicals.  Cosmetics, perfumes, lotions, and oils may cause discoloration. Even water has been known to cause damage and changes in color. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause turquoise to fade.  Store turquoise in a soft pouch to protect it from scratches. 

Treat emeralds gently. Though considered hard on the Mohs scale, emeralds are more delicate than any other precious gemstones used in jewelry. They naturally have tiny inclusions within them, called “jardin,” which makes them brittle and prone to fractures.  Emeralds should be set in bezel settings to protect all of the edges from chipping or fracturing.  All emeralds are treated with cedarwood oil to enhance their appearance and prevent fracture from loss of moisture.  Avoid ultrasonic cleaners which will remove that oil and will likely cause damage. Use warm, soapy water to gently clean emeralds.

Pearls absorb water to maintain their lustrous beauty, so wearing them regularly keeps them radiant.  (They absorb moisture from your skin.) Avoid cosmetics, perfumes, hairsprays, and cleaners, which will erode the surface of pearls.  Wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing them to remove dirt and oils. Store pearls in a soft pouch and avoid storing them in airtight containers. They need humidity to stay vibrant!