Choosing Classier Jewelry

Tips For Caring For Natural Turquoise Jewelry

18 June 2016 by Angel Torres

Natural turquoise is a type of turquoise stone or bead that has not been chemically treated to be stronger or have a certain type of color. Natural turquoise may have imperfections, but it is the genuine form of this type of gemstone. If you have jewelry with natural turquoise, the following tips will help you take good care of it.

Store Turquoise Only With Other Turquoise

One of the more important things you need to remember about natural turquoise is that it is a soft stone. It isn't hard like diamonds that can be placed with other stones and not scratch. With turquoise, you need to keep it stored properly, which means away from harder stones. If you store your turquoise earrings in a jewelry box with semi-precious and precious gemstones, those stones might scratch the surface of the natural turquoise stone.

Avoid Sources Of High Heat And Chemicals

All forms of turquoise can get ruined if they are in high heat or are cleaned with harsh chemicals, which includes natural turquoise. This type of turquoise is more susceptible to damage, so don't wear the jewelry if you have a laborious job, while cleaning with bleach and other chemicals, or when doing yardwork. This is especially important when wearing a turquoise ring, since the stone can easily get damaged. You should also avoid wearing this type of jewelry if you wear a lot of perfume or body oils on your skin.

Use Mild Soap And Water To Clean it

If your turquoise jewelry is dirty, all you need is some mild soap and cool or warm water. Again, make sure the water isn't too hot. You should also avoid using commercial jewelry cleaners, since the chemicals could alter the stone, such as causing it to change different colors. This occurs because turquoise is a porous stone, where chemicals can seep into it through the various cracks and veins, then alter its appearance. It is best that you use nothing more than soapy water, and not use anything abrasive to clean it.

Don't Put Turquoise in an Ultrasonic Cleaner

Ultrasonic cleaners are great for sterling silver jewelry that needs polishing, but not if that silver jewelry has natural turquoise stones in it. The cleaner is much too harsh for such a soft stone. Only use this type of cleaner for metals that don't contain sensitive gemstones. Instead, use your soapy water or simply wipe the jewelry with a soft microfiber cloth.

For more information on natural turquoise jewelry, check out companies like Sunface Traders.

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