The birthstones of December—Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite—are exquisite gems, each boasting distinct qualities. To keep their inherent beauty and brilliance intact, dedicated care is essential. Here’s a comprehensive manual on how to clean and nurture each of these December birthstones, ensuring they preserve their vividness for many years ahead.
Turquoise: Maintenance and Cleaning
Characteristics of Turquoise
Appearance: Renowned for its vibrant blue-to-green hue, turquoise is a delicate, porous gem characterized by its natural matte surface.
Hardness: Turquoise is relatively soft (5-6 on the Mohs scale), making it prone to scratches or damaging interactions with chemicals.
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Cleaning Recommendations for Turquoise
Steer Clear of Chemicals: Turquoise is acutely responsive to chemicals, including everyday cleaning agents, perfumes, and lotions, which can tarnish its color.
Utilize Mild Soap and Water: To clean turquoise, combine a small amount of gentle, unscented soap with lukewarm water. Soak a soft cloth in the mixture and softly wipe the stone.
Dry Promptly: After cleaning, use a soft, dry cloth to pat the stone until dry. Refrain from immersing turquoise in water, as prolonged wet exposure can harm its surface.
Avoid Ultrasonic Cleaners: Turquoise should never be subjected to ultrasonic cleaning methods, as vibrations and water can fracture or harm the stone.
Storage Suggestions for Turquoise
Store Separately: To prevent scratches, keep turquoise in a soft pouch or a distinct compartment in your jewelry case.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Extended exposure to sunlight can lead to the fading of turquoise over time. Store it in a cool and shaded area.
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Zircon: Maintenance and Cleaning
Characteristics of Zircon
Appearance: Zircon often appears colorless but can also manifest in shades of blue, green, yellow, and red. Its high refractive index provides a dazzling brilliance akin to diamonds.
Hardness: Zircon ranks between 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it quite durable yet still vulnerable to scratches.
Cleaning Recommendations for Zircon
Utilize Mild Soap and Water: Clean zircon using gentle soap and lukewarm water. Soak for a few minutes, then use a soft toothbrush or cloth to gently remove any grime.
Rinse and Dry: Thoroughly rinse the stone in lukewarm water to eliminate soap residue. Dry it immediately using a soft cloth.
Occasional Ultrasonic Cleaning: Zircon can occasionally be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, but only if free from cracks. However, it’s wise to consult a jeweler prior to employing this method.
Storage Suggestions for Zircon
Store Away from Harder Stones: To avert scratches, store zircon jewelry away from tougher gemstones like diamonds and sapphires.
Protect from Hard Impacts: Zircon can chip if it collides with hard surfaces, so handle it with caution, particularly when storing or transporting.
Tanzanite: Maintenance and Cleaning
Characteristics of Tanzanite
Appearance: Tanzanite is prized for its deep blue to violet shades. Its remarkable color and rarity contribute to its high value, yet it is a relatively soft and fragile gemstone.
Hardness: Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness rating of 6-7, which means it is more susceptible to scratches or chips compared to harder stones.
Cleaning Recommendations for Tanzanite
Gentle Cleaning with Soap and Water: Clean tanzanite using a mild soap and lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, as extreme temperatures may damage the stone.
Avoid Scrubbing: Tanzanite is prone to scratching, so refrain from vigorous scrubbing. Utilize a soft brush or cloth to lightly remove dirt and debris.
Never Use Ultrasonic or Steam Cleaners: Tanzanite is particularly vulnerable to abrupt temperature variations, which can induce cracks. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaning methods.
Storage Suggestions for Tanzanite
Store in a Padded Container or Pouch: Store tanzanite in a cushioned box or soft pouch to shield it from impacts.
Keep Away from Heat and Sunlight: Extended exposure to heat or direct sunlight may fade tanzanite’s bright color over time, so ensure it is kept in a cool, shaded environment.
General Recommendations for All December Birthstones
Keep Away from Chemicals: All three December birthstones (turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite) are sensitive to chemicals found in perfumes, lotions, and cleaning agents.
Regular Cleaning: Regular maintenance with mild soap and water ensures the stones remain fresh and preserves their luster.
Avoid Harsh Scrubbing: Always utilize a soft cloth or brush to prevent scratching.
Remove Before Physical Activities: To mitigate damage, take off jewelry featuring turquoise, zircon, or tanzanite before participating in sports, household chores, or any activity that might expose the stones to harsh conditions.
Conclusion
Caring for December birthstones demands a tender approach, as turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite are all relatively soft and sensitive to chemicals, heat, and impacts. By adhering to these straightforward care and cleaning guidelines, you can safeguard the allure of your birthstone jewelry and relish its vibrant colors and unique characteristics for many years ahead.