How to Care for Your Gemstone Jewelry

Shahla Mottahed
Jun 20
3 min read

Cleaning, Charging, and Storing Tips

Gemstone jewelry is more than just a beautiful accessory; it carries energy, symbolism, and, in many cases, healing properties. Whether you wear gemstones for their aesthetic appeal, spiritual significance, or sentimental value, proper care is essential to keep them vibrant and energetically powerful. Here’s a complete guide to cleaning, charging, and storing your gemstone jewelry to ensure its beauty and energy remain strong for years to come.

Cleaning Your Gemstone Jewelry

Over time, dust, oils, and everyday wear can dull the brilliance of your gemstones. Regular cleaning not only maintains their appearance but also removes any negative energy they may have absorbed. Here are the best methods for different types of stones:

Gentle Soap and Water Method

Most gemstones can be safely cleaned using mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth or brush.

Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
Gently scrub your gemstone jewelry with a soft toothbrush or cloth.
Rinse with clean water and pat dry with a microfiber cloth.
Avoid soaking porous or delicate stones like opals and pearls.

Dry Polishing for Soft and Porous Stones

Some gemstones, such as turquoise, malachite, and lapis lazuli, are sensitive to water and chemicals. Instead of soaking them, try:

Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to polish the surface gently.
Avoid chemical-based jewelry cleaners that may strip their natural finish.

Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaning – Use with Caution

While ultrasonic cleaners work well for diamonds and sapphires, they can damage softer or more fragile stones like emeralds, moonstones, and opals. Always check if your gemstone can handle ultrasonic cleaning before using one.

Charging and Re-Energizing Your Gemstones

Gemstones naturally absorb energy from their surroundings, including the emotions and vibrations of those who wear them. They need to be regularly charged to keep their energy fresh and powerful. Here are a few practical ways:

Sunlight and Moonlight Charging

Sunlight: Some stones, like citrine and carnelian, thrive in sunlight, but prolonged exposure can fade stones like amethyst, rose quartz, and aquamarine.
Moonlight: Full moon energy is gentle yet powerful, making it an ideal way to charge all gemstones. Leave your jewelry in a safe spot where it can soak up the moonlight overnight.

Earth and Natural Elements

Burying gemstones in the earth for a few hours allows them to reconnect with natural energy.
Placing them near plants or in nature also helps refresh their vibrations.

Cleansing with Smoke (Smudging)

Sage, palo santo, or incense smoke is a powerful way to cleanse gemstone jewelry. To do so, pass the jewelry through the smoke to clear away negative energy.

Crystal Clusters and Selenite Charging

Placing gemstone jewelry on a selenite plate or amethyst cluster overnight naturally recharges their energy.
Selenite, in particular, is a self-cleansing stone that can also cleanse other crystals.

Proper Storage to Protect Your Gemstones

Proper storage prevents scratches, tangling, and energy depletion. Here’s how to store your gemstone jewelry safely:

Store in Soft, Lined Jewelry Boxes

Use a jewelry box with soft lining or individual compartments to prevent stones from rubbing against each other.
To avoid scratches, keep delicate stones like opals, pearls, and moonstones separate from harder stones like diamonds and sapphires.

Pouches and Silk Bags

Store individual pieces in soft fabric pouches or silk bags for on-the-go protection.
This prevents exposure to dust, moisture, and other environmental factors.

Keep Away from Chemicals and Extreme Temperatures

Avoid exposing gemstone jewelry to perfumes, lotions, and harsh chemicals.
Remove rings and bracelets before washing dishes, swimming, or using cleaning products.
Store jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Caring for Your Gemstone Jewelry: A Sacred Practice

By cleaning, charging, and storing your gemstone jewelry properly, you ensure that these precious stones remain vibrant, beautiful, and energetically aligned. Whether you wear them for fashion, spirituality, or healing, treating your gemstones with care enhances their power and longevity.

Your gemstone jewelry is not just an accessory—it’s a connection to the Earth’s energy, a symbol of transformation, and a personal talisman. Nurture them; they will continue to shine and support you on your journey.

Which gemstone in your collection holds the most meaning for you? Please share your favorite piece and how you take care of it!