How to Clean Uncut Emeralds

An emerald can range in color from light to dark green.

An emerald is a variety of beryl, which is a mineral. Emeralds are green crystals, which are typically hexagonal in nature. According to Gem Suite, emeralds are most commonly mined in Colombia, Brazil and Zambia but are also mined in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Australia and the United States. Most emeralds are cut and placed into jewelry, but regardless of whether the emerald is cut or not, you mustbe properly clean and care for it so it maintains it's shine.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• 1 tbsp liquid dish washing detergent
• Cloth
• Lint-free cloth

Instructions

1. Combine 2 cups of warm water and 1 tbsp. of liquid dishwashing detergent in a bowl.

2. Place the emerald in the water. Allow the emerald to sit in the water for five minutes.

3. Use a small cloth to gently rub and clean the emerald, while it is still in the water.

4. Remove the emerald from the water. Dry with a lint-free cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Emeralds are brittle and can easily fracture. Handle an emerald with care while cleaning.

• Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner to clean an emerald. Do not expose an emerald to heat. If the water or heat is too hot to put your hand in or on, don't put your emerald in or on it. Do not use acetone as it can damage the stone.

References

• 18 Carat: Emerald
• Jewels For Me: Emerald the Mineral
• Gem Suite: What is an Emerald?