How to Care for Alexandrite Jewelry
A June birthstone, the gemstone alexandrite was so named because it was discovered on Czar Alexander II's birthday in 1831. Prized for its ability to change color according to the light source, natural alexandrite is more rare and more expensive than emerald. Here's how to take care of your alexandrite jewelry to protect your investment. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Basin
- Warm water
- Mild dishwashing liquid
- Old, soft toothbrush or cloth
- Soft wrapping cloth
- Compartmented jewelry box
Instructions
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Wearing Alexandrite Jewelry
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1
Put your jewelry on last and take it off first. Always complete your make-up before putting on your jewelry, so that the chemicals in hairspray and make-up won't damage it. You also will have to clean it less often.
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2
Remove your jewelry before doing any housework or yard work to prevent the possibility of breaking a clasp or the gemstone itself. Although more durable than many other gemstones, alexandrite is still vulnerable to scratches and sharp blows, as is its mounting.
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3
Avoid exposing your alexandrites to harsh chemicals, such as alkalis (drain cleaner).
Cleaning Alexandrite Jewelry
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4
Pour warm water into a basin and test it for temperature by dipping your hand into it. The water should be a comfortable temperature, not too hot and never boiling.
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5
Add mild dishwashing liquid to the water.
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6
Place the alexandrite jewelry in the solution. Soak from 10 to 20 minutes, according to how dirty the stone is.
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7
Remove the jewelry from the cleaning solution and clean the stones with a soft cloth or toothbrush.
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8
Rinse the jewelry with warm water and pat it dry.
Storing Alexandrite Jewelry
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9
Wrap each piece of alexandrite jewelry in its own cloth to keep it from touching other pieces.
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10
Place each piece in its own compartment in your jewelry box, separate from other gemstones, as harder stones will scratch softer ones. Diamonds and corundum (rubies and sapphires) are harder than alexandrite, while topaz, aquamarines, emeralds and garnets are softer.
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11
Store your jewelry in a cool place out of direct sunlight.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose a reputable jewelry repair service if you need to remount alexandrite. A misplaced jeweler's torch can affect its ability to change color under different light sources.
According to some sources, alexandrite may be cleaned ultrasonically or with steam, unlike softer gemstones. This should be performed only by a professional jeweler, however; if in doubt, don't allow your jewelry to be so cleaned. Ionic cleaners are acceptable though.
