Having beautiful gemstones is a great way to show off your style and express your personality. But if they’re not properly cared for, you could be in for a rude awakening. Your gemstones could become discolored, lose their sparkle, and even suffer from surface changes due to oxidation.
Oxidation is a chemical reaction when gemstones come into contact with oxygen and other elements in the air. Luckily, there are ways to prevent oxidation and keep your jewels looking their best.
In this article, we’ll delve into some tips for preserving the beauty of your gemstones, including how to keep them clean, store them properly, and identify signs of oxidation.
What is Oxidation?
Oxidation is a natural reaction when a metal is exposed to air, sunlight, or other elements. This can cause the metal to corrode or turn an undesirable color, such as an orange or brown.
Silver and certain types of gold jewelry often oxidize when exposed to the atmosphere, making the metal appear dull or discolored. Oxidation can also affect gemstones, as it can cause them to become dull or discolored over time.
What Causes Oxidation in Gemstones?
Oxidation is a common problem experienced with gemstones due to their chemical makeup. Oxidation occurs when oxygen in the air combines with certain minerals in the gem, causing it to change color and become dull.
When this happens, the gemstone’s beauty is diminished, and its natural elements are no longer visible.
Oxidation is a prevalent issue with certain gemstones, such as pearls and opals, as they contain various chemical compounds.
The type of oxidation will depend on the particular combination of minerals and metals in the gemstone. For instance, some gemstones may oxidize when exposed to oxygen and light, while others only require contact with the elements to oxidize.
In addition to the chemical makeup of the gemstone, external factors can also cause oxidation.
For example, long-term exposure to harsh temperatures, such as extreme heat or cold, can cause the deterioration of the gemstone’s color, clarity, and even its hardness.
Prolonged sunlight exposure can also cause gemstones to lose their color or luster.
Oxidation can lead to irreparable damage to gemstones, so it’s important to take preventative measures to keep your precious gems looking pristine.
Reducing the environmental conditions that can lead to oxidation can prolong the life of your gemstones and maintain their natural beauty.
How To Prevent Oxidation
As oxidation can cause irreparable damage to gemstones, it is important to take precautions to prevent it. This section will discuss three key steps to preserving your gems, including proper storage, regular cleaning, and being mindful of chemicals.
Proper Storage
Proper storage is key to preventing oxidation when it comes to preserving the beauty of your gemstones.
First, it is important to store your gemstones in a dry place that doesn’t experience extreme temperature changes.
Heat and humidity can speed up the oxidation process, so keeping your gemstones away from windows, vents, and heat sources will help prevent oxidation.
Second, store your gemstones in a sealed container. Ensure your jewelry box or pouch has a tightly sealed lid to keep out air and moisture.
If stored in a container without a seal, gemstones can be exposed to moisture and air, increasing oxidation.
Third, divide and store different kinds of gemstones separately. Certain gemstones are more prone to oxidation than others, so separating them is important to prevent cross-contamination. For example, diamonds and rubies should be stored in separate containers.
By following these storage tips, you can help ensure that your gemstones stay beautiful and free from oxidation for many years to come.
Clean Jewelry Regularly
Good jewelry care and maintenance are vital in preventing oxidation and preserving the beauty of your gemstones. Regularly cleaning and inspecting your crystal jewelry pieces is an important first step. Depending on the type of jewelry, it should be cleaned at least every four to six weeks.
Start by gathering the proper materials, such as a soft bristle brush, warm water, a mild detergent, and a damp cloth. You’ll also need a container or bowl to hold the cleaning solution, and a strainer or colander to strain out the pieces when they’re finished.
If your jewelry pieces are adorned with pearls, be sure to use a soft cloth and warm water to clean them, as harsh cleansers or abrasives could damage the pearls. You can also use a very mild, non-detergent soap solution or a mild jewelry cleaner.
First, use a soft brush to gently remove any dust or dirt from the jewelry. Then, place the pieces in a container or bowl filled with the cleaning solution.
Let them soak for 5-10 minutes to loosen dirt and oils. Afterward, use the damp cloth to wipe away any remaining dirt and oils, and rinse the pieces in warm water. Once the pieces are clean, use a soft cloth to dry them before storing them.
You can also clean your gemstones with a commercial jewelry cleaner, such as a steam cleaner, jewelry-cleaning solution, or ultrasonic Jewelry cleaner. However, always read the directions carefully and use caution when cleaning with any of these products.
Be Mindful of Chemicals
When it comes to preserving the beauty of your gemstones, one of the most important things to keep in mind is to avoid any and all contact with harsh chemicals. The reason for this is that certain chemicals can cause oxidation of the gemstones and reduce their luster.
Exposure to certain chemicals can also cause damage to the gemstone’s structure, including cracking, fracturing, and chipping.
To avoid oxidation, use cleaning solutions that are specifically designed for use with gemstones. Only use mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth to clean your jewelry.
Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they could cause the stone to oxidize. Additionally, make sure to rinse the jewelry thoroughly after cleaning it.
It’s also important to keep your gemstones away from harsh chemicals that could cause oxidation. Avoid storing them in humid environments or near open containers of ammonia, bleach, or chlorine. These chemicals can all cause oxidation.
When you do need to clean or handle your gemstones, it is important to wear protective gloves. Skin oils and sweat on your hands can contain chemicals that can damage the stone, so it’s best to avoid direct contact.
By taking the necessary steps to protect your gemstones from oxidation, you can ensure their beauty for many years to come.
Identifying Signs of Oxidation
It is important to know what to look for when it comes to detecting oxidation in your gemstones. This section will cover the three key signs of oxidation that can affect gemstones, including discoloration, surface changes, and a decrease in sparkle.
Discoloration
Discoloration is one of the most common signs of oxidation in gemstones. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen combines with organic or inorganic material.
When this reaction occurs on the surface of a gemstone, the stone can become discolored or faded, resulting in a dull and lifeless appearance. To prevent discoloration, try to keep your gemstone away from direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and other sources of oxidation.
Surface Changes
Oxidation is a natural process that can alter the physical appearance of a gemstone over time.
Be aware of any changes to the stone’s surface as these could indicate oxidation.
Oxidation often causes a film on the gemstone that can give it a slightly dull or discolored appearance. It can also cause the gemstone to become flaky or powdery.
Most notably, oxidation can cause areas of the stone to turn dark or green. If you notice any of these changes, it is important to take steps to prevent further oxidation.
Decrease in Sparkle
Another sign that your gemstones are oxidizing is a decrease in their sparkle and shine. While this may not be easy to detect at first, if you notice a lack of sparkle or luster compared to what it was when you first acquired it, oxidation may be taking place. If left untreated, oxidation can lead to irreparable damage to your gemstones.
What to Do with Gemstones and Crystals that Have Signs of Oxidation?
If your gemstones and crystals are already oxidized, you can remove the tarnish with a polishing cloth or a specialized cleaner.
For gemstones and crystals that are delicate or porous, you can use a soft brush or a cotton swab to gently clean them. Be careful not to scratch or damage the surface of the gemstones and crystals.
However, if your jewelry and crystals are heavily oxidized, it may be best to take them to a professional jeweler or crystal expert for cleaning. They have specialized equipment and expertise to safely remove the tarnish without damaging your pieces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preserving the beauty of your gemstones should be a priority. Oxidation is a natural process, but you can prevent it with a few simple steps.
Start by understanding what causes oxidation, then take proper steps to prevent it. Store your jewelry properly, clean it regularly, and be mindful of what chemicals you’re exposing your gemstones to.
Finally, you should know the signs of oxidation so you can take action in a timely manner. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your gemstones looking as beautiful as the day you bought them.