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Fine Jewelry University Articles matching: “ultrasonic”
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Fine Jewelry University (Show All FJU Articles)
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Gem in the Spotlight: Blue Zircon
… that scientists currently estimate that the earth formed around 4.56 billion years ago, that makes Zircon one of the earliest known gems. The Care and Cleaning of Zircon Zircon care and cleaning is simple: avoid steamers or ultrasonic cleaners. This is particularly important with stones that may have been color enhanced (like most Blue Zircon). Also, avoid the use of harsh cleaning chemicals or agents, especially bleach and acid. Clean the gem using a soft cloth or brush and…
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Gem in the Spotlight: Topaz
…scratch, you should protect your topaz from hard knocks. It can be split with a single sharp blow, a trait it shares with diamond. Clean with mild dish soap; use a toothbrush to scrub behind the stone where dust can collect. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on topaz. Sudden changes in temperature can fracture the stone, so care should be taken to avoid rapid cooling or heating. Topaz is the birthstone for November and blue topaz is one of the birthstones for December. …
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Gem in the Spotlight: Peridot
… of 6.5 to 7 which makes it a little harder than Moonstone and a little softer than Topaz. Care should be taken to protect peridot from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for cleaning. Instead, use warm soapy water and a tooth brush for at-home cleanings. If well cared for, Peridot jewelry can last generations. We have an excellent selection of Peridot jewelry and loose Peridot gems that we can set…
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Gem in the Spotlight: Alexandrite
… life has its ups and downs, and so alexandrite is also connected with bringing a sense of balance and well-being. Care and Cleaning of Alexandrite Alexandrite should always be treated with care because of its value and rarity. While ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe for alexandrite, warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush are always the safest. With its innate durability and proper care a high-quality stone will last for generations. Why Alexandrite? …
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Gem in the Spotlight: Ruby
… dishwashing detergent in solution. Soak the piece for 15 minutes, and then clean with a soft brush. Rinse with clear water and examine under good light for any remaining residue. If there is any, repeat the process. You can use an ultrasonic cleaning machine with rubies, but use caution as these machines can cause loose gems to come out of their settings. Remember to dry your ruby jewelry thoroughly before wearing or storing. Why Ruby? Rubies are a truly remarkable gemstone …
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Gem in the Spotlight: Tanzanite
… it if the intended use is daily wear. Rings and bracelets set with tanzanite should only be worn carefully on occasion. We recommend cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft bristle brush. You should never clean your tanzanite in an ultrasonic cleaner or steamer. As if the amazing color of tanzanite wasn’t enough incentive to collect them, there is more to the story. In 2019, the Tanzanian government closed the only large-scale tanzanite mine in the world. There are a few …
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Gem in the Spotlight: Tourmaline
…occasional wear or a pendant/earrings for daily wear. Because it isn’t exceptionally hard (Mohs hardness of 7-7.5), it should be stored away from other gemstones that could potentially damage it. Tourmaline should not be put into an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaned, and should only be cleaned with warm, soapy water. With proper care, a piece of tourmaline jewelry can last generations and even become a treasured family heirloom. Why Tourmaline So, now that you know a bit …
