How to Safely Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry with Gemstones

How to Safely Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry with Gemstones

Sterling silver jewelry adorned with gemstones requires special care to maintain its brilliance without damaging the stones. Many gemstones are delicate and can be easily affected by harsh chemicals, excessive moisture, and abrasive cleaning methods. Here’s your ultimate guide to safely cleaning and preserving your gemstone silver jewelry.

Disclaimer: I am in no way a professional and will not be held responsible for your own actions after reading this blog. I am simply providing information I have researched.

General Rules for Cleaning Silver with Gemstones

  • Avoid harsh chemicals such as silver dips, bleach, ammonia, and baking soda paste. 
  • Do not soak gemstone jewelry—some stones absorb moisture and can crack or discolor. 
  • Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap for most gemstone pieces. 
  • Dry jewelry immediately after cleaning to prevent water spots or residue buildup.

How to Clean Different Types of Gemstone Silver Jewelry

Hard Gemstones (Diamonds, Rubies, Sapphires, Topaz, Quartz, Amethyst, Garnet, Citrine)

  • Best Cleaning Method:
  • Mix mild dish soap with warm water.
  • Use a soft toothbrush to gently clean around the gemstone and silver.
  • Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

Porous & Soft Gemstones (Pearls, Opals, Turquoise, Amber, Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Moonstone, Coral)

Do NOT soak these stones—they absorb water and can crack or discolor. 

Best Cleaning Method:

  • Dampen a microfiber or soft cotton cloth with warm, soapy water.
  • Gently wipe the jewelry, avoiding direct water contact on the stone.
  • Dry immediately with a soft cloth.
  • For pearls, use a special pearl cleaner or just wipe with a damp cloth.

Emeralds (Require Special Care)

Emeralds often have natural fractures, making them vulnerable to damage from harsh cleaners or excessive water. 

Best Cleaning Method:

  • Wipe with a soft, damp cloth.
  • If necessary, use a little mild soap but never soak or scrub.

Opals & Moonstone (Easily Damaged by Chemicals & Heat)

These delicate stones can lose their shine if exposed to excessive moisture or chemicals. 

Best Cleaning Method:

  • Use a dry microfiber cloth for regular cleaning.
  • If deeper cleaning is needed, use a barely damp cloth with mild soap.

Turquoise & Malachite (VERY Porous—Can Absorb Liquids & Change Color)

No water, no silver polish, no ultrasonic cleaners! 

Best Cleaning Method:

  • Wipe with a dry, soft cloth only.
  • If absolutely necessary, use a damp cloth (no soap) and dry immediately.

Extra Tips for Keeping Gemstone Jewelry Clean

  • Store gemstone jewelry separately—some stones scratch easily. 
  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure—stones like amethyst and opals can fade. 
  • Take off gemstone rings before washing hands or applying lotion. 
  • Use anti-tarnish storage for sterling silver to slow down tarnishing.

Best Gemstone-Safe Silver Polishes

Weiman Silver Polish Cream 

  • Safe for most gemstones (except pearls, opals, turquoise, and malachite) 
  • Removes tarnish without being too abrasive 
  • Leaves a protective coating to slow tarnishing

Wright’s Silver Cream 

  • Gentle formula, works well for silver with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and quartz 
  • Comes with a sponge for easy application  
  • Avoid on porous stones like turquoise, malachite, or opals

Goddard’s Silver Polish Cloth (For Light Tarnish) 

  • Pre-treated cloth—no liquid mess 
  • Safe for gemstone jewelry with hard stones 
  • Great for quick touch-ups

Connoisseurs Silver Wipes (Quick & Easy) 

  • Soft, pre-moistened wipes 
  • No harsh chemicals, safe for most gemstones 
  • Avoid using directly on pearls, opals, or turquoise

How to Use Silver Polish on Gemstone Jewelry

  1. Apply a small amount of silver polish to a soft cloth (or use a polishing cloth). 
  2. Gently rub the silver part only—avoid direct contact with gemstones. 
  3. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off any residue. 
  4. Dry completely before storing.

Many gemstones, such as pearls, opals, turquoise, and emeralds, require gentle handling and should never be exposed to harsh cleaners or prolonged moisture. With the right cleaning methods and proper storage, your sterling silver gemstone jewelry can maintain its shine and beauty for years to come!

 

References:

Silpada. (2021, July 16). How to clean sterling silver jewelry with gemstones. Silpada. https://www.silpada.com/blog/education/how-to-clean-sterling-silver-jewelry-with-gemstones/?srsltid=AfmBOoqVZMHZzDzJWHjNmmxvawXJjS8maF8MOpeg60laK7ym8QGCfsfn 

Lambert, L., & Sole, C. (2025, January 13). How to clean silver jewelry in a matter of minutes. Better Homes & Gardens. https://www.bhg.com/homekeeping/house-cleaning/tips/how-to-clean-silver-jewelry/ 

King, H. M. (n.d.). Mohs hardness scale. geology.com. https://geology.com/minerals/mohs-hardness-scale.shtml 

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