How to Clean Gold Jewelry With Gemstones: A Guide by Stone

How to Clean Gold Jewelry With Gemstones: A Guide by Stone

Gold jewelry with gemstones requires a little more care than plain gold jewelry. While solid 10K, 14K, and 18K gold can generally be cleaned safely with mild soap and lukewarm water, the gemstone may determine which cleaning method is appropriate.

Some gemstones are durable enough for gentle brushing, while others can be damaged by soaking, heat, chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam.

When cleaning gemstone jewelry, always choose a cleaning method based on the most delicate component of the piece.

5464x5464-500
L008-square-500

Can You Clean Gold Jewelry With Gemstones at Home?

Often, yes—but not every gemstone should be treated the same way.

Before cleaning, consider:

  • What type of gemstone is set in the jewelry?
  • Is the gemstone treated?
  • Does it have natural inclusions or fractures?
  • Is the stone securely held by its setting?
  • Is the jewelry antique or particularly delicate?

When you’re unsure, professional advice is the safest option.

How to Clean Common Gemstones in Gold Jewelry at Home

Diamond

Diamonds are among the most durable gemstones and can generally be cleaned with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a very soft brush.

Gently clean around the setting and underneath the stone where oils and debris can accumulate.

If the diamond appears loose or a prong is damaged, have the jewelry inspected before cleaning it.

Sapphire

Sapphires are generally durable gemstones and can usually be cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Avoid harsh chemicals and aggressive brushing around the setting.

Ruby

Rubies are also generally durable and can often be cleaned using mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft brush.

As with any gemstone jewelry, inspect the setting before cleaning.

Emerald

Emeralds require extra care.

Many emeralds naturally contain inclusions and may also have undergone treatments. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning unless a professional has confirmed that the particular emerald is suitable.

For routine care, a gentle wipe or carefully controlled cleaning method is preferable.

Amethyst

Amethyst can generally be cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Avoid harsh chemicals, excessive heat, and prolonged exposure to intense heat or sunlight.

Aquamarine

Aquamarine can generally be cleaned gently using mild soap and lukewarm water.

Use a soft brush and avoid harsh chemicals or excessive heat.

Peridot

Peridot should be cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Avoid harsh chemicals and rough handling, particularly around the setting.

Iolite

Iolite is best cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water and a soft cloth or very soft brush.

Avoid harsh chemicals and aggressive scrubbing.

Pearl

Do not soak pearl jewelry.

Pearls are relatively delicate and can be affected by chemicals, prolonged exposure to water, and abrasive materials.

Instead, gently wipe pearl jewelry with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry it immediately afterward.

Blue Topaz

Clean blue topaz gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Blue topaz is generally suitable for gentle routine cleaning, but avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and sudden temperature changes. Use a soft cloth or very soft brush, particularly around the setting.

Citrine

Citrine can generally be cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Use a soft cloth or very soft brush to remove everyday buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and prolonged exposure to intense heat.

Alexandrite

Alexandrite can generally be cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Use a soft cloth or very soft brush, paying particular attention to the jewelry setting rather than scrubbing the gemstone itself. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

Garnet

Most garnets can be gently cleaned with mild soap and lukewarm water.

A soft cloth or very soft brush can be used to remove oils and everyday buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and sudden temperature changes.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite requires more care than many other gemstones.

Clean tanzanite gently with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, harsh chemicals, and sudden temperature changes, as tanzanite can be more vulnerable to damage than harder gemstones.

Tourmaline

Tourmaline can generally be cleaned gently with mild soap and lukewarm water.

Use a soft cloth or very soft brush and avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and sudden temperature changes. As with any gemstone jewelry, take care around the setting and avoid aggressive scrubbing.

L092-500

Can You Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner on Gemstone Jewelry?

Not always.

Ultrasonic cleaners can be suitable for some durable gemstones and secure settings, but they can potentially damage or loosen certain stones.

Avoid assuming that an ultrasonic cleaner is safe simply because the jewelry is made from solid gold.

Extra caution is appropriate for:

  • Pearls
  • Opals
  • Emeralds
  • Heavily included gemstones
  • Fracture-prone stones
  • Treated gemstones
  • Delicate or intricate settings

When in doubt, have the jewelry professionally assessed first.

What If a Gemstone Is Loose?

Do not clean it at home.

If you notice movement, a rattling sound, a bent prong, or a gemstone that appears lower or differently positioned than before, stop wearing the jewelry and have it inspected.

Cleaning cannot fix a loose setting, and brushing or rinsing the piece could increase the risk of losing the gemstone.

Discover Fine Gemstone Jewellery at Lugaro Jewellers

Established in 1986, Lugaro Jewellers is a vertically integrated fine jewellery house proudly rooted in Canadian excellence.

We are dedicated to creating timeless pieces that capture life’s most meaningful moments, while giving back to the community that has shaped us.

At Lugaro, our vision is to embody timeless elegance and masterful craftsmanship. From exceptional Canadian diamond designs to our trusted partnerships with the world’s most prestigious Swiss watchmakers, every piece reflects our commitment to quality, authenticity, and heartfelt celebration.

0
    (0 ITEMS)
    Your Shopping Bag
    Your cart is emptyReturn to Shop
      Calculate Shipping
      Apply Coupon