How to Clean Aquamarine Rings

Aquamarine is popular because of its beautiful sparkle and gorgeous coloration. However, like all gemstones, aquamarine becomes dirty and loses some of its sparkle with daily wear.  Luckily, you can often restore brilliance to your aquamarine ring with regular, gentle cleaning at home.

Materials

• Small bowl


• Water


• Old toothbrush


• Mild liquid dish soap


• Soft, 100% cotton cloth

Procedure

1. Wipe the stone carefully with the cotton cloth to remove loose dirt and surface oils.  Make sure to use only pure cotton cloths, as coarser synthetics can scratch the stone.


2. Fill the bowl with lukewarm water, add a little of the liquid soap and mix so that you see some bubbles and the water feels soapy to the touch. Do not use very hot or very cold water, as thermal shock can damage your aquamarine.


3. Place the ring the bowl of soapy water. Let soak for approximately ten minutes and then remove.


4. Scrub the stone gently with the toothbrush and some of the soapy water mixture to remove any accumulated dirt. Make sure to use an old toothbrush or one with soft bristles, since these are gentler on the stone. Under no circumstances should you use a wire brush, because it will scratch the stone.


5. Rinse the ring in clear, lukewarm water to remove the soap.


6. Dry with the soft, cotton cloth.

Tips

• Do not use ultrasonic cleaners on aquamarine rings. These can crack the stone.


• Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, such as enzyme cleaners, ammonia and bleach. While some people do recommend these for cleaning aquamarine, they have the potential to damage the surface of the stone. If this occurs, you will need a jeweler to repair it.


• Choose a soap that is hypoallergenic or one you have used in the past. Even with rinsing some residue of the soap will remain on the ring. This can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.


• If the metal band needs cleaning, consider taking the ring to a jeweler. Silver and gold cleaners can damage gemstones. A professional will be able to clean the metal while safeguarding the stone.