A Handy Guide to Clean and Care for Turquoise Jewelry

With its captivating blue-green hues, turquoise has been cherished for centuries as a gemstone of immense cultural and historical significance. Whether you own a precious Persian turquoise artifact or a stunning piece of turquoise jewelry, you must learn the proper cleaning techniques for this exquisite gem. This comprehensive guide will explore the best practices for cleaning and caring for turquoise, addressing common concerns and misconceptions. So, let’s delve into the world of turquoise and discover how to preserve its timeless beauty.

What is Turquoise

Before we delve into the cleaning process, let’s gain a deeper understanding of turquoise. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate mineral primarily composed of copper and aluminum. Other minerals, such as iron or zinc, influence its unique hue. Persian turquoise, renowned for its vivid sky-blue color, is highly regarded for its exceptional quality and cultural significance.

How to Clean Persian Turquoise

Cleaning turquoise requires a delicate approach to prevent damage or discoloration. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean Persian turquoise safely:

1. Gather Your Supplies

Gather the necessary supplies, including a soft microfiber cloth, mild dish soap, distilled water, a soft toothbrush or jewelry brush, and a lint-free towel. It is crucial to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could harm the gemstone’s surface.

2. Prepare a Cleaning Solution:

combine a pinch of dish soap with warm distilled water in a bowl. Avoid tap water, as it may contain minerals or impurities that could affect the turquoise’s appearance.

3. Cleaning the Turquoise:

Dampen the soft toothbrush or jewelry brush in the cleaning solution. Gently brush the turquoise surface in a circular motion, paying particular attention to any crevices or intricate designs. Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure, which could scratch or damage the gemstone.

4. Rinse and Dry:

After gently brushing the turquoise, rinse it under lukewarm distilled water to remove any soapy residue. Ensure thorough rinsing to prevent the formation of a dull film on the surface. Pat dry using a lint-free towel, gently removing any excess moisture.

5. Buffing and Polishing:

Carefully buff the turquoise using a soft microfiber cloth to restore its natural luster. Apply gentle pressure in circular motions, ensuring the entire surface is polished evenly. Take care to avoid excessive friction, which could lead to scratches.

Does Water Damage Turquoise?

A common concern is whether water can damage turquoise. While prolonged exposure to water or submerging turquoise in liquids should be avoided, cleaning turquoise with a damp cloth or briefly rinsing it under lukewarm water is generally safe. The key is to prevent prolonged exposure or excessive moisture, which may affect the gemstone’s stability.

How to Clean Silver Turquoise Jewelry:

If your turquoise jewelry contains silver components, it is essential to take additional care to clean and maintain both the turquoise and the silver. Here’s a specialized approach for cleaning silver turquoise jewelry:

Remove Tarnish from Silver:

To remove tarnish from the silver components of your turquoise jewelry:

Use a silver polishing cloth or a non-abrasive silver polish.

Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer, applying the polish in gentle motions.

Ensure that no polish comes into contact with the turquoise, which could cause damage.

Clean the Turquoise:

After removing tarnish from the silver, refer to the earlier steps for cleaning Persian turquoise. Be cautious during the process to avoid direct contact between the silver polish and the gemstone.

How to Care for Turquoise

In addition to regular cleaning, proper care can help preserve the longevity and beauty of turquoise. Here are some essential tips for caring for turquoise:

• Storage

Store your turquoise jewelry or artifacts in a soft cloth pouch or a separate compartment in a jewelry box. It will prevent scratching or rubbing against other jewelry pieces that could damage the turquoise.

• Avoid Chemicals

Protect your turquoise from harsh chemicals, including cleaning agents, perfumes, and hairsprays. These substances can cause discoloration or damage the gemstone’s surface.

• Protection from Heat and Sunlight

Protect your turquoise from excessive heat and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can cause the gemstone to become brittle or change color.

• Regular Inspections

Periodically inspect your turquoise jewelry to identify any loose stones, worn prongs, or signs of damage. Promptly address any issues by consulting a professional jeweler.

Last thoughts

Owning and maintaining turquoise jewelry or artifacts is a remarkable experience that allows us to connect with a rich heritage. By this, you can ensure the longevity and beauty of your precious turquoise possessions. Remember to clean your turquoise gently, avoiding abrasive materials and harsh chemicals.

When it comes to silver turquoise jewelry, take extra care to clean both the turquoise and the silver components. Finally, by implementing proper care practices, such as safe storage and regular inspections, you can enjoy the timeless allure of turquoise for years to come.

For those interested in acquiring authentic Persian turquoise artifacts or exquisite turquoise jewelry, “Shop Iran Art” offers a diverse collection of handcrafted pieces. Visit their online shop today to explore the beauty of Persian turquoise firsthand and add a touch of elegance to your collection.

How do you clean Persian turquoise?

Gently brush the turquoise with mild dish soap and warm distilled water, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a lint-free towel.

Does water damage turquoise?

While prolonged exposure to water should be avoided, cleaning turquoise with a damp cloth or brief rinsing is generally safe. Prevent excessive moisture or submersion.

Where can I buy authentic Persian turquoise?