Looking after rubies involves simple steps focused on cleaning, storage, and handling to maintain their beauty and longevity.
Rubies are known for their hardness and durability, making them relatively easy to care for compared to softer gemstones. However, proper care is essential to keep them sparkling and prevent damage.
Cleaning Your Ruby Jewellery
Thankfully, these red gemstones are easy to clean. You don't need highly sophisticated equipment to clean your ruby jewellery. The method described in the reference is straightforward and effective for removing everyday dirt and grime.
Here's how you can easily clean your ruby jewellery at home:
- Gather your supplies: All you need is a bowl, warm water, gentle detergent, and a toothbrush with soft bristles.
- Prepare the cleaning solution: Dilute the soap in warm water in the bowl. Ensure the detergent is mild and does not contain harsh chemicals.
- Soak your jewellery: Carefully place your ruby jewellery into the warm, soapy water.
- Soak duration: You can soak your jewellery in it for a few minutes or even overnight, depending on how dirty it is. Soaking helps loosen dirt accumulated in settings and crevices.
- Gentle Brushing: After soaking, gently brush the stone and setting with the soft-bristled toothbrush to remove any remaining dirt.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the jewellery thoroughly under clean, warm water to remove all soap residue. Dry it carefully with a soft, lint-free cloth.
For more stubborn dirt or professionally treated rubies (like those filled with lead glass), it's always best to consult a professional jeweller for cleaning. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for treated rubies, as they can potentially worsen fractures or damage fillers.
Proper Storage for Rubies
How you store your ruby jewellery is just as important as cleaning it. Improper storage can lead to scratches or chips.
- Separate Storage: Store ruby jewellery separately from other pieces, especially diamonds or other harder gemstones, as these can scratch the ruby surface.
- Soft Pouches or Lined Boxes: Use individual fabric pouches or a jewellery box with lined compartments to protect your rubies.
- Avoid Clutter: Do not jumble ruby pieces together in a drawer where they can rub against each other.
Handling Your Ruby Jewellery
While rubies are durable (ranking 9 on the Mohs hardness scale), they are not indestructible. Careful handling is key to preventing damage.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Remove your ruby jewellery before using household cleaners, swimming in chlorinated pools, or using cosmetics and perfumes. These substances can dull the metal settings or affect certain treatments applied to the stone.
- Protect from Impacts: Avoid wearing ruby rings or bracelets during activities where they might be subject to hard knocks or impacts.
- Limit Heat Exposure: While rubies can withstand heat, sudden temperature changes or prolonged exposure to intense heat can sometimes cause damage or affect certain treatments.
By following these simple care instructions, particularly the easy home cleaning method, you can ensure your beautiful rubies remain vibrant and sparkling for years to come.
