Using Ruby-Safe Cleaners
Proper cleaning is essential to maintaining the beauty and brilliance of your ruby, but not all cleaning products are safe for this precious gemstone. Using ruby-safe cleaners ensures that your stone remains undamaged while preserving its clarity and color. Whether your ruby is natural, heat-treated, or fracture-filled, choosing the right cleaning method is key to its longevity.
1. The Safest Cleaning Method for Rubies
The most recommended way to clean a ruby is with a mild soap and water solution, as it is safe for all ruby types, including treated and untreated stones.
Steps for Cleaning a Ruby with Soap and Water:
- Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
- Soak the Ruby: Place the gemstone in the solution for 5–10 minutes to loosen dirt and debris.
- Gently Scrub the Stone: Use a soft toothbrush to clean the ruby, especially around the setting.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Wash the ruby with clean, lukewarm water to remove soap residue.
- Dry Properly: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to pat the ruby dry and restore its shine.
Safe for:
- Untreated rubies
- Heat-treated rubies
- Oiled rubies (as long as they are handled gently)
- Fracture-filled rubies (but avoid excessive soaking)
2. Ruby-Safe Commercial Jewelry Cleaners
If you prefer a commercial cleaner, look for a non-abrasive, ammonia-free jewelry cleaner specifically designed for rubies and colored gemstones.
Features of a Ruby-Safe Jewelry Cleaner:
Ammonia-Free: Harsh chemicals like ammonia and chlorine can damage some ruby treatments.
Non-Acidic: Acidic solutions can degrade fracture-filled or oiled rubies.
Gentle Formula: Look for cleaners labeled safe for natural gemstones.
Recommended Types of Ruby-Safe Cleaners:
- Liquid Gemstone Cleaners: Designed for colored gemstones, these are safe for rubies when they do not contain strong acids or ammonia.
- Foam or Spray Cleaners: Some mild foam-based cleaners are effective for routine cleaning.
- Jewelry Wipes: Pre-treated, non-toxic wipes are ideal for quick cleaning without harsh chemicals.
J10189| play | medium| middle| “17.54 Ct. Burma (Myanmar) No Enhancement Ruby Bracelet”
3. Cleaning Methods to Avoid
Avoid Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners
- High-frequency vibrations in ultrasonic cleaners can weaken or break rubies with internal fractures.
- Steam cleaning can damage lead-glass-filled rubies by causing expansion and cracking.
Avoid Harsh Household Cleaners
- Bleach, ammonia, and alcohol-based cleaners can degrade certain ruby treatments.
- Toothpaste or baking soda can be too abrasive and cause surface scratches.
Avoid Long Soaks for Treated Rubies
- Fracture-filled or oiled rubies may lose their filling if soaked in water for extended periods.
4. Best Practices for Long-Term Ruby Care
- Clean rubies regularly (once every 2–3 weeks) to prevent dirt buildup.
- Store rubies separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
- Remove ruby jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or household cleaners.
- Get professional cleaning for high-value rubies or complex settings at least once a year.
Conclusion
Using ruby-safe cleaners is essential for preserving the beauty of your gemstone. A mild soap and water solution is the safest cleaning method for all rubies, while commercial cleaners should be ammonia-free and non-acidic. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged soaking to ensure your ruby remains vibrant and undamaged for years to come.
J10245| play | medium| middle| “1.01 Ct. Mozambique Heat Treated Ruby Ring”
For more details, visit Avoiding Ruby Damage Risks to learn how to protect your ruby from common hazards and keep it looking its best.