Cleaning Sterling Silver with Gemstones: 11 Things to Know

Bracelets, armlets, and necklaces are just some jewelry items that people use to energize their lifestyle. Sterling silver is becoming a popular selection for those who want to enhance their jewelry collection.

In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about how to clean sterling silver jewelry with gemstones. In doing so, you’ll ensure that these precious gems maintain their stylistic look for years to come. 

Cleaning Sterling Silver With Gemstones

Since they contain alloy metals, sterling silver is more susceptible to damage and tarnishing than pure silver. This is why before you learn how to clean sterling silver jewelry with gemstones, you must understand more about their unique features.

1. Should I remove my sterling silver for any activities?

Exposure to harsh chemicals can damage the metals in sterling silver. In some cases, you also run the risk of loosening the stone. This is why it’s recommended to avoid wearing sterling silver when gardening, exercising, or when doing any form of housework.

2. Can I wear sterling silver every day?

While you should avoid wearing sterling silver for some activities, you can wear them for as long as you please. Wearing metals like silver frequently actually prevents the buildup of dust on the metal.

3. Does sterling silver tarnish more easily vs. other types of silver?

Sterling silver may contain copper, nickel, and zinc, and, when combined, the tarnishing process of these items is faster than pure silver. Keep this in mind as you learn how to clean tarnished sterling silver with gemstones.

4. What can I do to prevent sterling silver from tarnishing?

Because sterling silver is prone to high levels of tarnish, it’s recommended to keep these items out of direct sunlight and moisture. Since your skin’s natural oils help keep silver jewelry shiny, feel free to wear it when desired. 

5. What items do I need to clean sterling silver with gemstones?

When it comes to learning how to clean sterling silver jewelry with gemstones, there are a handful of at-home materials you can rely on for the process. 

• Dish soap
• Lint-free microfiber cloths
• A polishing cloth
• A soft toothbrush
• Warm water
• Toothpaste 

6. How do I clean sterling silver with gemstones?

It’s important to understand that cleaning sterling silver with gemstones requires routine cleaning, especially when you consider that they are prone to damage.  

After setting up your space, fill two bowls, one with warm water and the other with dish soap, select your preferred cleaning material (i.e., toothbrush), dip it into the dish soap, and gently rub your stone. Use the warm water bowl to rinse off your stone, then use a lint-free cloth to wipe off any remaining soap or water.

If warm water and soap don’t do the trick, try gently scrubbing your sterling silver jewelry in a circular motion using a pea-sized drop of toothpaste. Let the toothpaste sit for roughly five minutes before rinsing with warm water. Don’t forget to dry thoroughly!

7. Does the type of gemstone matter when cleaning sterling silver?

There are several gemstones, each with its unique cleaning recommendations. As a result, the cleaning process may differ with each type. A howlite stone, for example, should not be cleaned with a standard washcloth. Doing so may result in scratches. Opt for a towel that is made specifically for jewelry cleaning.

Emeralds, as another example, are vulnerable to extreme heat. Use gentle warm water with a soft toothbrush, and avoid ultrasonic cleaning. 

8. What about diamonds? How are those cleaned?

Diamonds are of the most popular type of gemstone, so it comes as no surprise that jewelry lovers might wonder how those are taken care of. Fortunately, soap and water will do just fine with diamonds. Just avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach.

9. How often should I clean my sterling silver with gemstones?

As a simple routine, you'll want to clean your sterling silver once a day with a polishing cloth. Doing so will help minimize any dirt or tarnish that starts to build up.

10. Are there any other factors I should consider when cleaning sterling silver with gemstones?

As a final tip for how to clean sterling silver with gemstones, you should consider gemstone age, their resistance to scratches, and whether or not they contain crystals. These factors can influence how susceptible your gemstones are to tarnish. When in doubt, seek advice from a professional jeweler. 

11. How can I safely store sterling silver?

As mentioned earlier, you should avoid storing sterling silver in sunlight or direct heat. Avoid exposing your jewelry to air and moisture. In addition to that, we also recommend you store your sterling silver in either its original box or a simple small bag. It’s best to store your sterling silver in separate containers to avoid scratches. 

Sterling Silver with Boho-Magic

That concludes our guide on how to clean sterling silver with gemstones. With a simple self-disciplined routine, you’ll preserve those precious stones for years to come. 

If you want to add some sterling silver pieces to your collection, Boho-Magic can help you get started. We design some of the most unique jewelry items, including earrings, rings, and gemstones. 

No special style is worth the wait. Browse our most-loved collection today!