![](https://jeppeleon.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/selling2.jpg)
Jewellery Cleaning
By a professional: We advise that every few years you have fine jewellery cleaned professionally. Not only will this restore the stones to their maximum brilliance, but also the metal work can be polished up in the workshop in a way that is not possible at home. The mount can also be checked under magnification and the claws and settings can be inspected to ensure no stones are loose. If a gem has been subject to a lot of wear, it may become slightly chipped or scratched over time, and having a stone re-polished can add years to the longevity of its beauty.
By you: At home, the best way to keep a piece of jewellery clean is by regularly soaking it in a soapy solution of warm water and washing up liquid, and gently running a soft bristled toothbrush over the piece. Make sure you wash behind the stone and setting, as this is where most dust and dirt is likely to build up. Rinse well under warm water and dry the piece with a soft, lint free cloth. This method is recommended for most gemset jewellery, including diamond, sapphire and ruby.
Warning! There are many fragile or porous stones which are not suitable for cleaning with anything other than a soft cloth. Water (especially hot), detergents or chemicals can irrevocably damage the following gemstones: Emerald, Turquoise, Pearl, Opal, Coral, Lapis Lazuli, any stone that is cracked or severely damaged or made of organic material. Many of these stones should also not be worn in the shower or whilst swimming and should be kept away from the damaging effects of perfume, hairspray or moisturiser.