# How to clean jewelry with gemstones

> How to clean jewelry with stones: which stones handle water and a brush, which are delicate (pearls, opal, emerald, turquoise) and which avoid ultrasonic.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-gemstone-jewelry/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-08-13
- Updated: 2026-08-13
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/como-limpiar-joyas-con-piedras/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

---

Each stone has its own hardness and sensitivity. Before cleaning, identify the stone: not all of them tolerate the same method.

## Tough stones

Diamond, sapphire and ruby handle lukewarm soapy water and a soft brush. Even so, avoid knocks and sudden temperature changes.

## Delicate stones

Pearls, opal, turquoise, coral, amber, lapis lazuli and jet are soft or porous: clean them only with a damp cloth. Emerald often has fractures treated with oil or resin, so do not use ultrasonic, steam or solvents.

## Glued stones

If the stones are glued (as in much costume jewelry), do not soak them: water can loosen the glue.

## Safe steps

1. Wet a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap.
2. Wipe the piece carefully, using a soft brush in the crevices.
3. Rinse with another damp cloth.
4. Dry well.

> [!NOTE]
> If you are not sure what stone it is, use a damp cloth or ask a jeweler.

## See also

- [Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner: when to use it and when not to](https://www.711grados.com/en/ultrasonic-jewelry-cleaner-when-to-use/)
- [How to clean pearls](https://www.711grados.com/en/how-to-clean-pearls/)
- [Gemstones in jewelry](https://www.711grados.com/en/gemstones-in-jewelry/)