Commercial Cleaning Solutions Use commercial jewelry cleaners with caution. Commercial jewelry cleaners are no more effective than the household cleaners suggested above, but they are more convenient. They are normally safe for diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, but may be harmful to some gemstones. Never soak gemstone jewelry in commercial cleaners for more than a few minutes. Ultrasonic Cleaners Use ultrasonic cleaners for diamonds, rubies, and sapphires only.
Ultrasonic cleaners can damage emerald, opal, pearl, and some other colored gemstones.
Special Tips on Opals and Emeralds Because of their unique characteristics, opals, and emeralds require special care and treatment. Opals Rub the top of your opal periodically with a paper towel moistened with a light oil to apply a thin film of oil to the top of the stone. Wipe off excess oil with a dry towel. Do not immerse the opal in oil or let it soak in any liquid. Soaking may damage the stone.