The most important factor to consider before cleaning your gemstones is their hardness, which reflects their durability. To measure hardness the jewelry industry uses the Mohs Scale. This gem-trade standard measures the ability of a gem or mineral to resist abrasion damage. For instance, diamonds are placed as the hardest gemstones at 10 and talc is the softest at one. Hard, or nonporous, gemstones include, among others: rubies, sapphires, topaz, spinel, quartz (amethyst and citrine), alexandrite, aquamarine, and garnet.

Below we’ve listed three ways to safely care for gold and hard (nonporous) gemstones.

1. Hagerty Jewelry Polishing Cloths and Disposable Wipes are the most convenient method for removing the build up of dirt and oils or the effects of oxidation without the mess of water and other liquids. Simply buff dirt away with these specially treated cloths.

2. Hagerty Jewel Clean is the most effective liquid formula for bathing dirty jewelry. Simply soak your gold in this cleaner and use the brush to remove caked on film.

3. Hagerty Sonic Cleaning Machines provide professional cleaning power in the convenience of your own home. Use electrosonic vibrations to gently remove dirt and grime from your finest jewelry.