Wearing Ruby Jewelry Safely
Rubies are known for their durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them ideal for everyday wear. However, despite their hardness, rubies can still be scratched, chipped, or damaged if not handled properly. Wearing Ruby Jewelry Safely is essential to minimize such risks. Understanding the importance of Wearing Ruby Jewelry Safely helps protect its brilliance, longevity, and setting.
1. Avoid Impact and Hard Knocks
While rubies are tough, sudden impact can still cause chipping or fractures, especially along edges or in delicate settings.
Best Practices:
- Avoid wearing ruby rings or bracelets during sports, exercise, or manual labor.
- Be mindful when lifting heavy objects or engaging in activities that involve hard surfaces.
- Opt for protective settings such as bezels for rings to minimize impact risks.
2. Keep Ruby Jewelry Away from Harsh Chemicals
Exposure to chemicals can damage the metal setting and weaken certain ruby treatments, especially fracture-filled or oiled rubies.
Best Practices:
- Remove ruby jewelry before using household cleaners, chlorine, or ammonia-based solutions.
- Avoid exposing rubies to perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays, which can leave residue on the gemstone.
- Wipe rubies with a soft, dry cloth after wearing to remove oil and dirt.
3. Be Cautious with Treated Rubies
Some rubies undergo heat treatment, fracture filling, or oiling to enhance their appearance. Certain treatments require extra care.
Best Practices:
- Avoid high heat exposure, as some treatments may degrade under extreme temperatures.
- Do not use steam or ultrasonic cleaners on treated rubies.
- If unsure whether your ruby is treated, have it tested by a gemologist.
4. Secure Settings and Prongs Regularly
Loose settings increase the risk of losing a ruby, especially in rings and earrings that experience frequent movement.
Best Practices:
- Have a jeweler inspect prongs and clasps every few months to ensure they are secure.
- Avoid twisting or pulling on rubies in pendants, earrings, or rings, as this can loosen settings.
- Store ruby jewelry in individual compartments to prevent friction with other pieces.
5. Remove Ruby Jewelry Before Sleeping
Sleeping with ruby jewelry can cause unnecessary wear and tear, especially on rings or bracelets.
Best Practices:
- Take off ruby rings and bracelets before sleeping to avoid accidental scratches or bending.
- Store rubies in a fabric-lined jewelry box or soft pouch when not in use.
6. Clean Rubies Properly After Wearing
Regular cleaning helps maintain the gemstone’s brilliance and prevents dirt buildup in settings.
Best Practices:
- Clean rubies with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
- Dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth before storing.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or rough cloths that could scratch the gemstone.
7. Choose Protective Settings for Everyday Wear
The way a ruby is set in jewelry affects its durability. Some settings provide more protection against damage.
Best Practices:
- Bezel settings offer maximum protection by surrounding the ruby with metal.
- Halo settings can provide some additional coverage but may require extra maintenance.
- Prong settings expose more of the gemstone and require frequent inspection for security.
Conclusion
By following these safe wearing practices, you can ensure your ruby jewelry remains brilliant and well-protected. Avoiding impact, harsh chemicals, and loose settings will help preserve the gemstone’s beauty and value for years to come.
For more details, Explore Proper Ruby Storage Tips to ensure your gemstone stays safe, secure, and in perfect condition.