Small ultrasonic machines may be purchased at your local jewelry store and are very good when used weekly however, remember Red, white and blue. Rubies, Diamonds and Sapphires are the only stones that should be placed in them.

 

Soaking in jewelry cleaner and an old tooth brush works wonders for all other colored gemstones. If you do not have jewelry cleaner a drop of any ammonia based product in a large container of warm water will do.

 

Pearls are delicate and should be wiped down with a clean lint free cloth after every wearing. For serious soil, soak in distilled water.

 

Opals should never be put in chemicals. Controversy still raises over the debate as to weather opals dehydrate. Some believe that soaking Opals in distilled water for 10 days will re hydrate them and bring them back to life.

 

Maintenance:

 

It is strongly recommended that jewelry worn on a daily basis be examined by a jeweler at least every 6 months to a year. If a piece receives a serious blow the piece should be taken to a jeweler as soon as possible.

 

Diamonds may be forever however, the metal that keeps them in our possession is not.

 

* As a piece ages the prongs become worn and most lost stone are a direct cause of prong neglect.

* Thinning shanks can be replaced or repaired.

* Clasps can be replaced or tightened.

* Earring backs should fit snuggly and be appropriately replaced when lost.

* Jewelry should not be worn while sleeping.

* Jewelry should only be removed when it can be safely and securely stored.