How do I care for my aquamarine jewellery?
Aquamarine gemstone jewellery is a breathtaking choice, known for its soothing blue hues reminiscent of the ocean. To preserve its natural beauty and luster, it's crucial to understand how to care for your aquamarine jewellery properly. In this blog post, we'll explore essential tips and best practices to ensure your aquamarine pieces remain sparkling and stunning for years to come.
1. Understanding Aquamarine:
Before diving into care instructions, it's helpful to know a bit about aquamarine:
Hardness: Aquamarine ranks 7.5-8 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a relatively durable gemstone but still susceptible to scratches and chips from harder materials.
Sensitivity: Despite its durability, aquamarine can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes and exposure to harsh chemicals, which can affect its color and clarity.
2. Gentle Cleaning:
Cleaning your aquamarine jewellery is essential to maintain its brilliance:
Mild Soapy Water: Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Gently immerse your aquamarine jewellery and use a soft brush (like a toothbrush) to clean any dirt or oils. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean, soft cloth.
Avoid Ultrasonic Cleaners: Refrain from using ultrasonic jewellery cleaners, as they can cause internal fractures in aquamarine due to vibrations.
3. Storing Your Aquamarine Jewellery:
Proper storage is crucial for preventing damage and maintaining your jewellery shine:
Individually Wrap Pieces: Store each piece of aquamarine jewellery separately in a soft jewelry pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratches and tangling.
Avoid Sunlight: Store your jewellery away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as prolonged exposure can lead to fading of the gemstone's color.
4. Wearing and Caring:
Taking precautions while wearing your aquamarine jewellery can help prolong its beauty:
Last On, First Off: Put on your jewellery after applying makeup, lotions, and perfumes to avoid contact with chemicals that can dull the gemstone.
Avoid Physical Activity: Remove aquamarine jewellery before engaging in activities that could subject it to potential damage, such as sports, gardening, or housework.
Professional Inspection: Periodically, have your aquamarine jewellery professionally inspected to ensure the settings and gemstones are secure.
5. Re-stringing and Maintenance:
For aquamarine jewellery with string or wire settings, consider:
Re-stringing: Over time, the string or wire used to hold the gemstone beads or components may weaken. Re-stringing is recommended to prevent breakage. If your Cunningfolk aquamarine necklace needs to be restrung, we’re happy to do so (and re-enchant the stones) for a nominal fee.
6. Protective Measures:
Consider these additional protective measures for your aquamarine jewellery:
Jewellery Insurance: If you own valuable aquamarine pieces, consider insuring them against loss, theft, or damage.
Safe Keeping: When you're not wearing your aquamarine jewellery, keep it in a secure and safe place to prevent loss or theft.
Conclusion:
Aquamarine gemstone jewellery is a precious and beautiful stone that deserves proper care and attention. By following these care guidelines and showing your aquamarine pieces the TLC they deserve, you can enjoy their timeless beauty — and bountiful serene energy — for years to come.