Sometimes. Ultrasonic cleaners generate high-frequency sound waves that travel through water or a solution to create heat and pressure. The effect dislodges dirt and debris in hard-to-reach places without altering the item in any way, but this is only the case for particular gems in robust, not delicate, settings. “For certain jewelry, you shouldn’t use ultrasonic because [stones] will detach from the settings,” cautions Lampley Berens. “If you have loose-set stones or a French cut, it can fall apart.” Gems that are not safe to be cleaned with this tool include malachite, sunstone, moonstone, lapis lazuli, opal, topaz, and turquoise. For more detailed information on ultrasonic cleaners, visit the GIA website.