DIAMONDS & GEMSTONES

Caring for Gemstone Jewellery

Each gemstone has its own character,
and its own care.

Gemstones differ in hardness, toughness and treatment. A sapphire may be suitable for everyday wear, while an emerald, tanzanite, pearl or opal needs gentler handling. If you do not know how a stone has been treated, ask a jeweller before cleaning it.

Everyday Care

After wearing your jewellery, wipe it gently with a soft, clean cloth to remove oils and residue. Store each piece separately to help prevent scratches and tangles. Take jewellery off before swimming, exercising or using household products.

Store it separately

Use a lined jewellery box or a soft pouch, and keep pieces apart so harder stones cannot scratch softer ones. Store jewellery away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Fasten chains before putting them away to help prevent tangles.

Before You Clean

Gemstones can have different treatments and cleaning needs. Before cleaning a piece, check its care instructions or ask a jeweller about the stone and setting. If you know it is suitable, use a soft cloth and mild soapy water; avoid soaking or using steam and ultrasonic cleaners unless a jeweller has confirmed they are safe for that piece.

Care by Gemstone

Sapphire Jewellery

Sapphires are durable, but treatment can change how they should be cleaned. For a sapphire with no known care restrictions, use lukewarm water, a little mild soap and a soft brush, then dry with a lint-free cloth. If it is fracture-filled, cavity-filled or dyed, use only a damp cloth.

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Ruby Jewellers

Ruby is in the same gem family as sapphire and is generally hard-wearing. Clean gently with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush only if its treatment is known to be suitable. Fracture-filled, cavity-filled or dyed rubies need extra care; use a damp cloth only and avoid acids and other chemicals.

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Emerald Jewellery

Emeralds often have oil or resin in surface-reaching fractures. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, which can affect the filling or put stress on the stone. Use lukewarm soapy water and gentle brushing; keep emeralds away from heat, solvents and hard knocks.

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Every gemstone has its own character. Understanding the stone, its setting and any treatments is the first step in caring for it well.

The Emily Burlington Approach

Aquamarine Jewellery

Aquamarine is suitable for jewellery, but protect it from hard knocks and heat. Clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft brush. As a cautious home routine, avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaning, particularly if the stone has fractures, liquid inclusions or an unknown treatment.

Tanzanite Jewellery

Tanzanite is less tough than sapphire or ruby, so avoid knocks and choose a protective setting for a ring worn often. Clean with lukewarm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, as well as sudden temperature changes.

Opal Jewellery

Clean with lukewarm soapy water only and protect them from scratches, hard knocks, heat and sudden temperature changes. If you are unsure whether an opal is a doublet or triplet, ask a jeweller before cleaning it.

Pearl Jewellery

Put them on after cosmetics and perfume; wipe gently after wearing. If a strand gets wet, lay it flat to dry. Keep pearls away from heat, chemicals and harder jewellery, and do not store them in plastic.

Diamond Information

Clear details for your chosen stone

Personal Guidance

Speak with our jewellery team

Handcrafted in London

Engagement rings made in our workshops

Here After Your Purchase

Support and care for your piece

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Fine jewellery is meant to be worn and enjoyed. To keep your items looking their best and to avoid damage, avoid these common mistakes.

Do not assume the same cleaning method suits every gemstone.
Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on pearls, opals, enamel or stones with unknown treatments.
Do not leave a damp pearl strand hanging; the thread can stretch.

If unsure on how to look after or store your fine jewellery items, always seek the advice of your professional jeweller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean all gemstones with soapy water?

No single method suits every stone. Treatments, setting and construction matter, so check first if you are unsure.

Can pearls get wet?

Avoid soaking them. If a strand gets wet, lay it flat on a soft towel and let it dry completely before wearing or storing it.

Can gemstone jewellery go in an ultrasonic cleaner?

Many gemstones, pearls and enamel are not suitable. Use one only if a jeweller has confirmed it is safe for the complete piece.

How should I store gemstone jewellery?

Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined compartment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Personal aftercare

Some gemstone pieces need a little extra attention. If you’re unsure how to clean a particular stone, or notice a setting that needs checking, our jewellers can offer advice tailored to your piece. We’re here to help you care for it with confidence.

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