Gemstone month how to care for your gemstones

1. Radiant Rubies: The King of Gems
Rubies are famous for their durability, sitting just below diamonds on the Mohs scale of hardness. However, "tough" doesn't mean "indestructible."

The Heat Factor: While rubies are formed under intense pressure, sudden temperature shifts or extreme heat can cause internal fractures to expand or damage previous surface treatments.

Cleaning Routine: The best way to keep a ruby glowing is a simple bath. Use warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.

Pro Tip: Rubies are generally sturdy enough for an at-home ultrasonic unit, making them one of the easier stones to maintain. Just ensure the stone hasn't been "glass-filled," as ultrasonic waves can damage those specific treatments.

2. Deep Blue Sapphires: The Stone of Wisdom
Sapphires are essentially the blue siblings of the ruby (both are varieties of the mineral Corundum). They are incredibly resilient but have one major enemy: Chemicals.

Chemical Sensitivity: Household cleaners, chlorine from pools, and even some hairsprays can dull the surface of a sapphire over time. Always make your jewelry the "last thing you put on and the first thing you take off."

Cleaning Routine: Like the ruby, a soft-bristled toothbrush is your best friend here. It allows you to get behind the setting where skin oils and lotions tend to build up.

The Verdict: Ultrasonic cleaners are typically safe for sapphires, but when in doubt, the "soapy water and soft brush" method is the gold standard for safety.

3. Elegant Emeralds: The Delicate Beauty
Emeralds require a bit more "white glove" treatment than their red and blue counterparts. Because emeralds naturally contain tiny internal inclusions (often called the jardin, or garden), they are more brittle.

The "No-Go" Zone: Never put an emerald in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner. The vibrations and heat can shatter the stone or strip away the natural oils used to enhance its clarity.

Handle with Care: Emeralds are prone to scratching and chipping if they take a "harsh blow" against a hard surface. They are best suited for earrings or necklaces, or rings worn for special occasions rather than daily chores.

Cleaning Routine: Stick strictly to room temperature water and mild soap. Gently pat them dry with a lint-free cloth.

Universal Rules for Every Gemstone
Regardless of the stone, these three golden rules will keep your collection gallery-ready:

Avoid High Heat: Never leave your jewelry on a sunny windowsill or near a heater.

Soft Touch Only: Always use a soft toothbrush. Stiff bristles can scratch the metal settings, even if they don't hurt the stone.

Storage Matters: Store your pieces in separate pouches. A diamond can easily scratch a ruby, and a ruby can easily scratch an emerald!

Quick Tip: If you can't remember the last time your jewelry was inspected, Gemstone Month is the perfect time to take your pieces to a professional jeweler to check for loose prongs or deep-seated grime.

“At Tushar Gems, we provide 100% certified, astrologer-approved gemstones with 28+ years of trust — so you never risk wearing the wrong stone.”