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A Beginner’s Guide to Gemstone Care & Maintenance

Your gemstone is a long-term investment — and with proper care, it can last for generations. Whether you own a rare sapphire, a soft moonstone, or a fiery garnet, understanding how to maintain your gemstones will keep them looking vibrant and beautiful for years.

The foundation of gemstone care starts with regular cleaning. Most gemstones can be safely cleaned using warm water, mild soap, and a soft-bristled brush. Gently scrub the surface to remove oils, dust, and everyday buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or steam cleaning unless you are certain your stone can handle it — some gems are heat-sensitive and can crack under intense temperature changes.

Equally important is proper storage. Gemstones can scratch each other if stored together, especially harder stones like sapphire or spinel. Keep each piece in a soft fabric pouch or a jewellery box with padded compartments. If you’re storing multiple pieces, ensure they don’t touch each other to maintain their shine and surface quality.

When wearing your gemstone jewellery, be mindful of daily activities. Remove rings and bracelets before doing heavy work, exercising, or using cleaning products. Soft stones like opal, turquoise, and moonstone are especially vulnerable to knocks and chemicals. Even robust stones can lose their polish over time if exposed to rough handling.

Another key aspect of care is understanding your gemstone’s hardness level, usually measured on the Mohs scale. For example, sapphires and rubies rank 9, making them very durable, while stones like fluorite or calcite rank much lower and require gentle handling. Knowing this helps you decide how often you can wear your gem and how to protect it.

Avoid exposing gemstones to direct sunlight for long periods, as certain stones — like amethyst or rose quartz — can fade with UV exposure. Also keep gems away from perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, which can damage surfaces or create dull films over time.

By following these simple but effective steps, your gemstones will maintain their natural beauty and brilliance for a lifetime. Stones by Gandara is committed to providing gems that not only look stunning but also last with proper care — ensuring your investment remains timeless.

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