Learning Center

Care & Cleaning

Fine jewelry is a precious possession that is designed and crafted to last a lifetime. However, proper care is required to assure the lasting qualities of your jewelry. Pampered Pearls is pleased to offer simple guidelines for the care and cleaning of your fine jewelry.

General Tips

• Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place.
• Keep your jewelry in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or in a box with compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece individually in soft tissue paper.
• Don't jumble your jewelry pieces in a drawer or jewelry case. Pieces can scratch each other.
• Be careful when removing your jewelry to wash your hands. Do not leave your jewelry on the rim of a sink where it can easily slip down the drain.
• There are many types of small machines on the market that will clean jewelry in a matter of minutes using high-frequency sound. These machines are called ultrasonic cleaners and are available in many different models and prices. They can be a convenient way to quickly clean your jewelry at home. However, ultrasonic cleaners can damage some jewelry and prolonged use may loosen gemstones from their mountings.

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Diamond Jewelry

Diamond jewelry is very popular. Some pieces, such as diamond engagement and wedding rings, are often worn 24 hours a day. Even though you may wear your diamond jewelry around the clock, you should give thought to its care. Diamonds are durable, but they still require proper maintenance. Diamonds can get smudged, soiled and dusty. Lotions, powders, soaps and natural skin oils put a film on diamonds and cut down their brilliance. Clean diamonds glow, because the maximum amount of light can enter the stone and return in a fiery brilliance. It takes just a little care to keep them that way:

• Do not wear diamond jewelry, especially rings, when doing rough work. Even though diamond is one of the hardest materials in nature, it can still be chipped by a sharp, sudden blow.
• Chlorine can damage and discolor the mounting on your diamond jewelry. Keep your diamond away from chlorine bleach or other household chemicals. You should also remove your diamond jewelry before entering a chlorinated pool or hot tub.
• Clean your diamonds regularly using a commercial jewelry cleaner, a mix of ammonia and water, or a mild detergent. Dip the jewelry into the solution and use a soft brush to dislodge dust or dirt from under the setting.
• Always thoroughly rinse and dry your jewelry after cleaning and before storage.
• Avoid touching your clean diamonds with your fingers. Handle clean jewelry by its edges.

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Colored Gemstones

There are many different types of colored gemstones, some of which require specific care and cleaning. It would be impossible to enumerate all of them in this brochure. However, there are some general care and cleaning rules that apply to all colored gemstone jewelry:

• After wearing, wipe your precious gemstone jewelry thoroughly with a clean, soft, slightly damp cloth. This will enhance the luster of the gemstones and ensure that your jewelry is clean before storage.
• Store gemstone pieces individually in soft pouches. You should be able to obtain these from your jeweler.
• Do not expose your precious gemstone pieces to saltwater or harsh chemicals, such as chlorine or detergents. These chemicals may slowly erode the finish and polish of gemstones.
• Hair spray, perfume and perspiration may cause jewelry to become dull. Apply all cosmetics, perfumes and colognes before putting on colored gemstone jewelry. Make sure to wipe your gemstones after wear to remove any chemicals, oils or perspiration.
• Do not subject gemstone jewelry to sudden temperature changes.
• If you have an active lifestyle, take extra precautions with some types of gemstone jewelry. Emeralds, for example, are brittle and should not be worn when doing household chores or any other activity where the stone could be hit or damaged.
• Be extra careful with ultrasonic cleaners. Some gemstones are fragile and can be damaged by ultrasonic cleaners.
• Almost all colored stone jewelry can be safely cleaned using a mild soap and water solution and a soft brush.
• Always thoroughly rinse and dry your jewelry after cleaning and before storage.

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Karat Gold Jewelry

Karat gold jewelry pieces make up the majority of many fine jewelry collections. Gold comes in many different styles and colors, but the care and cleaning procedure remains the same:

• Remove all gold jewelry before showering or cleaning. Soap can cause a film to form on karat gold jewelry, making it appear dull and dingy. By preventing the formation of this film, you immediately reduce the frequency with which your pieces will need to be cleaned.
• To clean your jewelry at home, you'll find many commercial cleaners available. In addition, you will find a soft chamois cloth an effective and inexpensive way to keep your pieces lustrous and shining.
• For certain gold jewelry, especially pieces that do not contain colored gemstones, an ultrasonic cleaning machine may be appropriate.
• Be careful of chlorine. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolor your gold jewelry. Do not wear gold jewelry while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub.
• You can remove tarnish with jewelry cleaner, or by using soap and water mixed with a few drops of ammonia. Carefully brush with a soft bristle brush. An old toothbrush can also be used. After the rushing, simply rinse with lukewarm water and allow to dry.
• Grease can be removed from karat gold jewelry by dipping the jewelry into plain rubbing alcohol.

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Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver, like other precious metals, can oxidize with time. But properly maintained silver jewelry improves with age and develops a lush patina. Treat your silver well, care for it properly and it will reward you with a long life and a lustrous look.

• Clean your silver jewelry with a mild soap and water solution, allowing the water to bead up, and then pat dry with a soft cloth. For more stubborn dirt, use a jewelry cleaner designed for silver use.
• Store your silver in a cool, dry place, preferably in a tarnish-preventive bag or wrapped in a soft piece of felt or cloth. Store pieces individually, so that they don't knock together and scratch.
• Do not rub silver with anything other than a polishing cloth or a fine piece of felt. Tissue paper or paper towels can cause scratches because of the fibers in these products.
• Make sure your silver is not exposed to air and light during storage – this can cause silver to tarnish. And don't wear sterling silver in chlorinated water or when working with household chemicals.

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Cultured Pearls

Cultured pearls are precious jewels and should be treated as such. They're also the products of living creatures. Cultured pearls are formed when an irritant is introduced into a mollusk. The mollusk secretes a substance called nacre, which covers the irritant and produces the pearl. Nacre gives pearls the rainbow of colors and luster that makes these gemstones so treasured, but its delicate nature also makes pearls particularly susceptible to damage. For this reason you should be extra careful with your cultured pearl jewelry:

• Apply cosmetics, hair sprays and perfume before putting on any pearl jewelry. When you remove the jewelry, wipe it carefully with a soft cloth to remove any traces of these substances.
• You can also wash your pearl jewelry with mild soap and water. Do not clean cultured pearls with any chemicals, abrasives or solvents. These substances can damage your pearls. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner. Never steam-clean pearls.
• Always lay cultured pearl strands flat to dry. Hanging a strand may stretch the threads.
• Do not toss your cultured pearl jewelry carelessly into a purse, bag or jewel box. A pearl's surface is soft and can be scratched by hard metal edges or by the harder gemstones of other jewelry pieces.
• Place cultured pearls in a chamois bag or wrap them in tissue when putting them away.

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Birthstones

Just about everyone knows what his or her birthstone is. Why is that? Because people still enjoy the folklore associated with the tradition of the birthstone. They like believing that wearing a birthstone brings them good luck and protects them.

Tradition associates a gem with each sign of the zodiac based on a color system. Color was thought to unleash the power attributed to the stone. In time, birthstones became associated with calendar months rather than the zodiac. And people began to select birthstones in colors other than the originals.

The Roman, Arabic, Jewish, Polish, Russian and Italian lists were all different. The following list of birthstones is one that is commonly used.

Month	Color	Stone
January	Dark Red	Garnet or Rose Quartz
February	Purple	Amethyst or Onyx
March	Pale Blue	Aquamarine, Green Tourmaline or Bloodstone
April	White (Clear)	Diamond or Rock Crystal Quartz
May	Bright Green	Emerald or Green Tourmaline
June	Cream	Pearl or Moonstone
July	Red	Ruby or Carnelian
August	Pale Green	Peridot or Sardonyx
September	Deep Blue	Sapphire or Lapis Lazuli
October	Variegated	Opal or Pink Tourmaline
November	Yellow	Topaz or Citrine
December	Sky Blue	Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon or Blue Topaz

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January

Garnet

Garnet is the accepted birthstone for the month of January. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the second year of marriage. When most people think of garnet, they picture the dark red Bohemian garnet that was popular in Victorian times. You may be surprised to learn that garnets are found in every color except blue, including brilliant green tsavorite garnet, raspberry pink rhodolite garnet, and orange malaya garnet. Bright red "anthill" garnets are found in Arizona. The czars of Russia favored rare green demantoid garnets. Garnets offer enough variety in appearance to suit every taste, as well as an outstanding price range to suit every pocketbook. Legend holds that Noah hung a large garnet in the ark for illumination. Garnets are durable and brilliant and will give years of pleasure. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect garnet from scratches, sharp blows, and extreme temperature changes. Garnets are found in the United States, Africa, Sri Lanka, Brazil and India.

Rose Quartz

Rose Quartz is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in January.

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February

Amethyst

Amethyst is the recognized birthstone for February and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the sixth year of marriage. Amethyst is a variety of quartz and comes in pale lilac to rich, deep purple shades. Ideally, it is a deep medium purple with rose-colored flashes that give amethyst its beauty and fire. Because of its abundance, it is readily available in all sizes and shapes. It is durable and can be worn every day. Amethyst has symbolized peace, protection and tranquility. Because royalty has always adored the color purple, amethysts abound in the ornaments of ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and in the British crown jewels. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect amethyst from scratches and sharp blows. It is found mainly in Brazil, Uruguay and Zambia.

Onyx

Onyx is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in February.

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March

Aquamarine

Aquamarine is the traditional birthstone for March. It is also the accepted anniversary gem for the 19th year of marriage. The ideal color of aquamarine is a refreshing pastel sea blue. Stones with a clear blue color without green or gray are generally the most valuable. If you are looking for a big, durable gemstone, aquamarine is readily available in larger sizes and is truly dramatic when cut in rectangular or oval shapes. It is a member of the beryl family, which also includes emerald. In ancient times, the stone was said to aid seafarers; thus it is an excellent gift suggestion for sailors or one who takes frequent cruises. It is a universal symbol of youth, hope and health. As part of the normal finishing process, some aquamarines are heated to remove traces of green and yellow. To maintain the brilliance of this beautiful gemstone, it should be immersed in jewelry cleaner or in lukewarm soapy water and cleaned with a small bristle brush. Do not use an ultrasonic machine to clean aquamarine. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows. Aquamarine is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria, Zambia and Madagascar.

Green Tourmaline & Bloodstone

Green Tourmaline or Bloodstone is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in March.

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April

Diamond

Diamond is the birthstone for the month of April. Besides being the most popular gemstone for engagement rings, diamond is the accepted anniversary gem for the 10th and 60th years of marriage. The name "diamond" comes from the Greek word "adamas," meaning unconquerable – suggesting the eternity of love. In fact, diamonds have been the traditional symbol of love since ancient Greece. Discovered about 2,500 years ago in India, the ancients believed they were splinters from the stars, perhaps crystallized lightening or hardened dew drops. Although diamonds are associated with being a colorless stone, they are occasionally found with a strong, bright color – green, red, pink, blue, canary yellow and amber. These "fancy" colored diamonds are highly prized. Occasionally, to improve appearance, diamonds are laser-drilled, and sometimes a foreign substance is used to fill surface cavities or fractures. Diamonds may also be irradiated or heated to induce fancy colors. Even though it is the most durable of gemstones, care should be taken to protect a diamond from sharp blows. Household chemicals may discolor or damage the mounting. To clean, you may use a jewelry cleaner, lukewarm soapy water and a small bristle brush, soak in a half-and-half solution of cold water and ammonia for half an hour, or use a home ultrasonic machine with its recommended cleaner.

Rock Crystal Quartz

Rock Crystal Quartz is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in April.

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May

Emerald

Emerald is the birthstone for the month of May. It is also the anniversary gemstone for the 20th and 35th years of marriage. Emerald is one of the most highly prized of all the gems. The name comes from the Greek "smaragdos," which means green stone. The most prized is pure grass green. Emeralds are often characterized by a garden of inclusions trapped within, known as the "jardin," because under magnification you will see all sorts of lovely patterns resembling foliage in a garden. A flawless, clear emerald is very rare and is usually found in only small sizes. Small to medium sized stones are often faceted in the "step" or emerald cut. The gem is also lovely when cut into a cabochon or dome shape. Sometimes emeralds are even carved. As part of the normal fashioning process, most emeralds are immersed in colorless oil or resin so small voids are not as noticeable. Care should be taken to protect it from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for emerald. Emeralds are found mainly in Colombia, Brazil, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Green Tourmaline

Green Tourmaline is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in May.

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June

Pearl

Pearl is the birthstone for the month of June. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the third and 30th years of marriage. A pearl is the product of an oyster's defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or naturally, the oyster surrounds it with layers of a substance called nacre. This forms the exquisite gemstone know as pearl. Natural pearls are extremely rare. Almost all pearls on the market today are cultured by man. Cultured pearls come in a wide range of colors. They should be relatively free of skin blemishes. The more perfectly round the shape the better. The higher the luster, or "orient," the more valuable the specimen. The larger the cultured pearl, the greater the value. Besides the popular round shape, there are stylish mabe (large hemispherical cultured pearls), freshwater (elongated in interesting shapes and colors), and South Sea (large cultured pearls 10mm and up from the waters of Australia and Indonesia), to name a few. Pearls have been recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity and purity. They have come to symbolize a happy marriage. Avoid household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays and perfumes. Don't use ultrasonic cleaners. Wash with mild soap and water and store in a protective chamois pouch or tissue paper.

Moonstone

Moonstone is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in June, since it physically resembles some pearls.

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July

Ruby

Ruby is the accepted birthstone for July. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 40th year of marriage. Ruby is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and beauty. Derived from the Latin word "rubber," it simply means red. Ruby, like sapphire, is a variety of corundum and only exists as a true red in color. The finest color is a vivid, almost pure spectral red. Many believed rubies possessed an inner flame that burned eternally. As part of the customary fashioning process, virtually all rubies are heated to permanently improve their color and appearance. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows. The finest rubies emanate from Burma, having been mined there since ancient times. Other sources include Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Afghanistan and India.

Carnelian

Carnelian is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in March.

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August

Peridot

Peridot is the accepted birthstone for August. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 16th year of marriage. Peridot should be a lively lime green, without a brownish or olive cast. Peridot is the child of volcanic action. Tiny peridot crystals are sometimes combed from the black sands of Hawaii. Care should be taken to protect peridot from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for cleaning peridot. The peridot is abundant and is available in larger sizes. It is found in Burma and the United States. The most important source of peridot in the world is the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation near Globe, Arizona, where it is mined by native Americans. Large sizes are mined in Myanmar, and peridot is also found in China.

Sardonyx

Sardonyx is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in August.

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September

Sapphire

Sapphire is the September birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gem for the fifth and 45th years of marriage. A variety of corundum, sapphire comes in all colors except red (the red variety being known as ruby), but is especially popular in deep blue. Fancy colored sapphires – including pink, green, orange and golden yellow – are magnificent when combined in a necklace or bracelet. The stone's durability, combined with its beauty, makes it the perfect alternative for an engagement ring. Ancient priests and sorcerers honored sapphire above all gems. Ancients believed the Ten Commandments were written on a sapphire tablet. Marriage partners put great faith in the stone. As part of the customary fashioning process, virtually all blue, yellow and golden sapphires are heated to permanently produce or intensify their color. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows. Sapphire is found in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, China and the United States.

Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is sometimes used as an alternative birthstone by those born in September.

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October

Opal

Opal is the October birthstone as well as the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 14th year of marriage. White opal has a white or light body color with flashes of many colors. Black opal has a black, dark blue, dark green or gray body color with vivid flashes of color such as red, pink and bright green. Opal has symbolized hope, innocence and purity through the ages. Care should be taken to protect opal from scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals and extreme temperature changes. To maintain the brilliance of opal, it should be wiped clean with a soft cloth. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine or jewelry cleaner. Opal sources are Australia, Mexico and the United States.

Tourmaline

Sometimes tourmaline, which spans the spectrum from red to violet, is used as a birthstone for October. Tourmaline also occurs in color combinations in one stone, which accounts for its popularity. It is not as fragile as opal and is sometimes selected by those who prefer faceted stones.

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November

Topaz

Topaz is the accepted birthstone for November. Blue topaz is the accepted anniversary gemstone for the fourth year of marriage, and imperial topaz for the 23rd year. Most people think of topaz as a transparent golden yellow gemstone. However, this gemstone occurs colorless as well as orange-yellow, red, honey-brown (dark sherry), light green, blue and pink. The name topaz is derived from the Greek word meaning "to shine" and also implies "fire." Orange-red imperial topaz and pink colors are rare and most valuable. The lore, magic and romance of topaz goes back many thousands of years. As part of the normal fashioning process, most brownish to sherry brown topaz is heated to produce a permanent pink color. Certain types of topaz are irradiated and heated to produce shades of blue. Topaz is found mainly in Brazil, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and China.

Citrine

Citrine is often used an alternative to topaz because it appears in many of the same colors as topaz. Unlike topaz, citrine is readily available and inexpensive even in large sizes.

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December

Turquoise

Turquoise is the accepted birthstone for December and is the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 11th year of marriage. Colors of turquoise range from sky blue (the most desirable color) to blue green and apple green. The name means "Turkish stone," because the trade route that brought it to Europe used to come via Turkey. The best qualities are found in northeast Iran (Persian turquoise). However, the southwestern United States is now the world leader in production. The deposits in Sinai were already worked out by 4,000 B.C. At that time the stone was used for jewelry, amulets and in the preparation of cosmetics. During the 16th century, turquoise was used as currency by the Southwest Indians. Although large quantities of beautiful turquoise that have not been color enhanced are available, today's turquoise is commonly stabilized with plastic to improve its color and durability. Chalky varieties of turquoise are normally impregnated with oil or wax to enhance color. This color change may not be permanent. Care should be taken to protect turquoise from scratches, sharp blows, hot water and household chemicals. Do not use a home ultrasonic machine for turquoise.

Tanzanite, Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz

Tanzanite, blue zircon and blue topaz have become popular alternatives in recent years for those who prefer faceted stones.

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Gemstones

Amber

Golden Time Capsule
Amber is a delicate, fossilized tree resin that often locks in secrets from the past. Amber is available in a wide array of colors, the most popular ranging from yellow to orange, mimicking the color of honey touched by the setting sun. Other less common colors include red, green, blue, violet and black. Ranging from transparent to opaque, the finest amber is clear with little or no cloudiness. Amber is one of the few gem materials not technically considered a mineral. Formed from fossilized tree resins 10 million to 100 million years ago, it is classified as an organic gem. Unlike most gemstones, inclusions can add a great deal to the value of amber – especially if these inclusions are plants or insects that have been trapped inside. A complete leaf or mushroom is highly desirable. Even more sought-after are pieces of amber containing the completely intact body of an insect. Being a gemstone of organic origins, amber requires some special but simple care and handling. Amber is a rather soft gemstone and can be easily scratched. It lends itself well to earrings and necklaces where contact with hard objects is minimized.

Origins
Throughout documented history amber has been washing up on the shores of countries lining the Baltic Sea. One of today’s best sources for amber is the Dominican Republic. Secondary sources include Myanmar and Mexico.

Treatments
Amber is sometimes heated to create deeper colors, or heated in oil to remove cloudiness. Oil-heated amber often contains highly reflective, disc-like inclusions called spangles.

Care
A soft, damp cloth may be used for cleaning amber. Amber should never be submitted to steam or ultrasonic cleaning. Avoid alcohol, bleach and all harsh chemicals. Also avoid prolonged exposure to hot water. The safest and best way to clean a piece of jewelry containing amber is with cool water, a very mild soap and a soft brush. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and allow the amber to dry completely before storing the piece in your jewelry box. Store each piece separately so that other jewelry won’t scratch it.

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Amethyst

Color of Royalty
Amethyst holds a magical appeal that’s proven to be timeless and universal. Amethyst displays a majestic hue of purple, moving from very light to very dark. With purple being the chosen color of royalty, amethyst has enjoyed an unwavering popularity dating back thousands of years. The finest quality amethyst exhibits a high degree of transparency and a rich deep purple color enhanced by flashes of burgundy or rose. Amethyst has been a popular gemstone for centuries, and with good reason. It is beautiful, durable and affordable. Amethyst is a variety of the mineral species quartz. It is a hard gemstone that is resistant to both scratching and breaking. Amethyst can be faceted or fashioned into cabochon cuts.

Birthstone
Amethyst is the birthstone for February.

Origins
Amethyst is found all over the world. Major sources include Brazil and Uruguay. Other sources include Zambia, India, Sri Lanka and the United States. Small qualities of very fine amethyst are also mined in Russia.

Treatments
Almost all amethyst is heated to bring out is best color. Heat-treated amethyst is very stable and requires no special handling.

Care
The beautiful color in your amethyst, if properly taken care of, will last indefinitely. Amethyst should be protected from sharp blows and scratches but is otherwise quite resistant to normal wear. Amethyst can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning. Some amethyst, whether treated or not, may fade if exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Because of this, you shouldn’t wear your amethyst jewelry while sunbathing or when using a tanning bed.

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Aquamarine

The Softer Side of Blue
The Greeks proclaimed this highly prized, light blue gem aquamarine, because it sparkles like the sea touched by the sun. Found in an array of pastel tones from very light to medium blue, aquamarine is often tinted by a splash of green. The delicate greenish blue of a fine aquamarine conjures up images of dancing light on the purest of tropical waters.

Aquamarine holds its place securely among the world’s most desirable gems. Ranging in tone from a very light to medium blue, many aquamarines will exhibit a slight tint of green in their body color. Generally the darker shades are more valued, but many people prefer the lively brightness of lighter hues. Aquamarine is readily available in larger sizes over 5 carats. In fact, gem quality aquamarine crystals weighing several hundred pounds have been discovered.

Birthstone
Aquamarine is the birthstone for March.

Origins
Today’s most important source for aquamarine is Brazil . Other sources include Zambia , Nigeria , Madagascar and the United States .

Treatments
Virtually all aquamarine is heated to minimize the greenish component of its color, making it appear a purer blue. Heat treated aquamarines are generally stable, but their color may fade if exposed to prolonged periods of high heat or direct sunlight.

Care
Aquamarines should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner or an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Aquamarines can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Citrine

Kissed by the Sun
As the golden variety of the quartz family, citrine takes its name from citron, the French word for lemon. But don’t think that all citrine is the color of lemonade. Citrines range from the soft hues of golden champagne to the rich, deep color of a fine Madeira wine. Its broad range of colors and outstanding affordability make citrine one of the most popular and desirable gemstones in the world. Citrine is a gemstone that generates a feeling of warmth and often sparks an attitude of lightheartedness in the wearer. Sunny and affordable, citrine is the perfect complement to any jewelry wardrobe, blending especially well with pastel colors and bright, polished surfaces. Citrine is also readily available in larger sizes. It’s not uncommon to find beautiful faceted gems over 10 carats, especially in lighter shades of yellow.

Birthstone
Citrine is an alternate birthstone for November.

Origins
Most citrine comes from Brazil. Other important sources include Madagascar , Bolivia and the United States. 

Treatments
Almost all citrine on the market today has been heat treated to improve its appearance. The color of citrine, whether treated or not, may fade if exposed to heat or sunlight for prolonged periods. 

Care
The beautiful color in your citrine, if properly taken care of, will last indefinitely. Citrine should be protected from sharp blows and scratches but is otherwise quite resistant to normal wear. Citrine can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning. Some citrine, whether treated or not, may fade if exposed to sunlight or heat for long periods of time. Because of this, you should never wear your citrine jewelry while sunbathing or when using a tanning bed.

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Cultured Pearls

Treasures From the Sea
Long known as the “Queen of Gems,” the pearl possesses a history and allure more compelling than any other gem. In fact, a beautifully matched strand of natural pearls is a treasure of incomparable value.  Given the incredible rarity of natural pearls, today’s cultured pearls combine the beauty of nature with the genius of man to create an organic gem available in a wide array of styles and prices. Cultured pearls are formed when a small piece of mantle tissue, a bead, or both is implanted into an oyster. Implanted material encourages the oyster to begin producing a rich and luxurious material, called nacre, that creates the pearl’s lustrous outer glow. Cultivated in both fresh and salt water, cultured pearls come in many different shapes and colors. The most popular shapes have traditionally been round, but more unusual shapes like baroque and button are also available. Colors range from white and cream to gray and black, as well as rich purples, golds and yellows. 

Birthstone
Cultured pearl is the birthstone for June.

Origins
Saltwater cultured pearls are produced in the ocean bays, atolls and inlets of Japan , China , Australia , French Polynesia , Myanmar , Indonesia and the Philippines . Freshwater cultured pearls are produced in the lakes and rivers of China and the United States.

Treatments
Most of the lighter shades of cultured pearls are mildly bleached to even out their color. Cultured pearls are sometimes tumbled to enhance roundness. They may be dyed to produce overtones of pink or strong body colors like teal, magenta or gold. Occasionally cultured pearls are irradiated to create strong iridescence or dark hues like black or gray.

Care
Cultured pearls are softer than most gemstones but durable enough for everyday wear. Because oils, soaps and chemicals can damage the beautiful nacre, you should apply cosmetics, perfumes and hairspray before putting on your pearls. Wipe your pearls with a dry, soft cloth after each wearing. Never clean cultured pearls with any harsh chemical, and only use a commercial jewelry cleaner specifically made for cultured pearls. The safest cleaning method is using a mild soap and cool water solution, wiping with a soft cloth. Always lay strands flat to dry to prevent the cord from stretching. To ensure years of enjoyment, be sure to have your cultured pearl strands inspected regularly and re-strung as needed by a Jewelers of America member jeweler.

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Emerald
The King of Green

Emerald, with its rich green reflecting the colors of spring, has been treasured for thousands of years as an emblem of rebirth and enduring love. The favorite of Pharaohs, prized by the Mogul rulers of India , and coveted by the royal houses of Europe , no other green gemstone can rival the emerald’s luxuriant green hue, entrancing beauty and eternal popularity.

Emerald is translucent to transparent. It is generally thought of as green in color. But look closer, and you’ll discover subtle but important differences in tones and hues. Some of the world’s finest emeralds are described as slightly bluish green in color and medium in tone. Pure green emeralds are also highly desirable. Emerald is part of the mineral family called beryl. If a gem is too light in tone it is no longer considered an emerald, but is referred to as green beryl. Common in many emeralds are a wide variety of internal characteristics or inclusions, often described collectively as a “garden.” Many feel that this garden adds interest and individuality to an emerald. Emeralds without these internal features are very rare and valuable.

Birthstone
Emerald is the birthstone for May.

Origins
Current key sources for emerald include Colombia , Brazil , Pakistan , Africa and Russia .

Treatments
Almost all emeralds are routinely enhanced to improve their appearance. Both natural and manmade fillers are commonly introduced into the fissures in emerald to reduce their visibility. Often referred to as oiling or infilling, similar enhancements have been done on emeralds for thousands of years. These types of enhancements are not considered stable, as fillers will come out over time or when exposed to high heat.

Care
Care should be exercised when both wearing and cleaning emerald jewelry. The internal features found in most emeralds make them very susceptible to sharp blows and sudden temperature changes. Never clean an emerald with an ultrasonic cleaning machine or a steam cleaner. You should not clean emeralds with strong detergents or most commercial jewelry cleaners. The safest and best way to clean a piece of jewelry containing emeralds is with cool water, a very mild soap and a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Garnet

A Family of Colors
When most people think garnet, they see only images of a dark red gemstone. But look a little deeper into garnet’s many varieties, and you’ll discover every color of the rainbow except blue. Few gems can rival garnet in the diversity of colors available. The green of summer grass, the gold of freshly harvested wheat, the orange of fiery hot steel, the pink of a delicate rosebud – garnet offers all these colors and more.

Garnet’s popularity dates back more than 5,000 years to ancient Egypt , where the gems were worked into beads or set into hand wrought jewelry. Jewelry set with dark red garnets from Czechoslovakia was extremely popular in the nineteenth century. Pieces set with these Bohemian garnets are still in high demand today for their beauty and uniqueness. Today’s gemstone collector knows that garnet offers a myriad of color choices in every shade imaginable, except blue. 

Birthstone
Garnet is the birthstone for January.

Origins
Garnets are mined in many locales around the world. Some of its more important sources include Africa , Australia , Brazil , India , Madagascar , Russia , Sri Lanka and the United States .

Treatments
There are no treatments commonly used to enhance garnet.

Care
Garnet is both hard and durable. Garnet can be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaning machine, any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Opal

Fireworks and Rainbows
Unlike any other gemstone, opal dazzles the eye with a spectral display of flashing and dancing colors – colors that move and shift within the opal’s mysterious depths. A Roman historian in the first century AD wrote, “There is in them a softer fire than the ruby, there is the brilliant purple of the amethyst and the sea green of the emerald – all shining together in incredible union. Some by their splendor rival the colors of the painters, others the flame of burning sulfur or of fire quickened by oil.” Opal offers the wearer a wider variety of appearances and color choices than any other gem.

Opal is treasured as much for its many different appearances as it is for its breathtaking beauty. There are over 100 different variety and trade names used today to describe opals. Opals with a lighter body color are often called white opals, and those with a darker (and more rare) body color are classified as black opals. Whether white or black, the value of an opal depends upon the vividness of the spectral flashes (often called play of color) visible from within the gem and the patterns these colors form. Another popular opal with little or no play of color is fire opal. Fire opals range in hue from vivid yellows to fiery reds and oranges.

Birthstone
Opal is the birthstone for October and shares this designation with tourmaline.

Origins
Most of the world’s opals come from the deserts of Australia . Other important sources include Mexico and the United States .

Treatments
There are various treatments used to enhance the beauty of opals. The most common treatments darken the body color, making the play of color slightly more noticeable. Some opals are coated with oil, wax or plastic to improve their appearance. All of these treatments only affect a thin outer layer of the gem’s surface and, therefore, are not considered stable.

Care
Because of their unusually high water content, opals should be protected from heat and strong light that can dry them out. Opals also draw moisture from the air and, therefore, should not be stored for long periods of time in dehumidified environments such as a bank vault. Never clean an opal using strong chemicals or detergents, and avoid both ultrasonic and steam cleaning machines. Because opals are slightly softer than most transparent gemstones, they are best suited for wear in earrings and pendants. When mounted in a ring or bracelet, special attention should be paid to ensure the stone is well protected. Opals can be cleaned with plain soap and warm water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Peridot

A Gem Born of Fire
Often called the “volcanic gem,” peridot usually forms in the rocks created by violent volcanic activity. On rare occasions, peridot also has been found in meteorites that have fallen to earth. No matter the source, whether from Mother Nature’s fiery depths or rocks that are truly out of this world, peridot has caught the attention of humans for thousands of years. Ranging from a light yellowish green to darker, richer shades of olive, peridot conjures images of young spring grass or the greens of a rich, dark forest at twilight.

Peridot has a history dating back well over 3,500 years. It was first mined on the Isle of Serpents in the Red Sea . Later renamed St. John’s Island , this historically important source of peridot supplied gems to the royal rulers of ancient Egypt , including Cleopatra. In recent years the popularity of peridot has steadily increased. This can be attributed to its availability, affordability and the growing use of shades of chartreuse by some of the world’s leading fashion designers. 

Birthstone
Peridot is the birthstone for August.

Origins
Peridot in limited quantities has been found in many volcanic regions all over the world, including parts of Italy and the Hawaiian Islands . Some of the world’s finest quality peridots are mined in Myanmar . The world’s most prolific source of peridot is the San Carlos Native American Reservation in Arizona . Other sources include China , Brazil and Pakistan .

Treatments
There are no treatments commonly used to enhance peridot.

Care
Peridot does not react well to heat. Avoid sudden temperature changes. Peridot should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner or an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Peridot can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Ruby

The Rarest Gemstone of All
Ruby is all about passion – penetrating the heart with color and fire like no other gemstone. Unmatched in legend and seldom rivaled in beauty, it combines the energy of light with the power of fire into a single breathtaking scarlet colored gem. Recognized as the world’s most valued gemstone for centuries, ruby holds the undisputed title as the “King of Gems.”

Ruby possesses a color like no other red gemstone. At its finest, the purity of its burning crimson hue inspires us with love and desire. Rubies come in a variety of colors ranging from purplish red to orangey red. Ruby belongs to the same mineral family as sapphire, but if a gem is too light in tone or too purple or orange in hue, it is called a fancy sapphire and not a ruby. The most sought-after rubies are pure red or red with a very slight pinkish undertone. Very fine quality rubies, especially in sizes over 3 carats, are incredibly rare and valuable – much rarer than top quality colorless diamonds.

Birthstone
Ruby is the birthstone for July.

Origins
Some of the finest rubies in the world are mined in Myanmar . Other important sources include Kenya , Pakistan , Sri Lanka , Tanzania , Thailand and Vietnam .

Treatments
Ruby is routinely heat treated to improve its appearance. Heat enhanced rubies are extremely stable. Some rubies may have a glasslike residue left in surface-reaching fissures after they are heated. This glasslike material is not stable, and care should be exercised during the cleaning process.

Care
Rubies are both a hard and durable and can be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaning machine, any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Rubies with a glasslike residue in surface-reaching fractures should not be cleaned with an ultrasonic or steam machine. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Sapphire

Bright and Brilliant
Long considered the ultimate blue gemstone, sapphire’s mood swings from the coolest and quietest shades to the most vibrant and lusty blues imaginable. And sapphire doesn’t stop there. You’ll discover some sapphires – often referred to as fancy sapphires because they aren’t blue – in shades of pink, purple, orange, yellow, gold and green, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues that shout with excitement. Varied and versatile – the choice is yours! 

Sapphire, the celestial gemstone long associated with the sky and the heavens, has been revered by humanity for thousands of years. Symbolizing truth, honesty and faithfulness, sapphire is an excellent choice for an engagement ring or any piece of jewelry given as a gift of love. As with most gemstones, the finest sapphires, no matter their color, are a vibrant hue with a medium tone. Extremely dark, almost black sapphires and extremely pale sapphires are among the most affordable. When shopping for a sapphire, let your own personal taste guide you.

Birthstone
Sapphire is the birthstone for September.

Origins
An important historical source of fine quality sapphire is the Kashmir district of India in the Himalayas . Current sources include Australia , India , Myanmar , Sri Lanka , Thailand and the United States .

Treatments
Almost all sapphire on the market today has been heat treated to improve its appearance. Heat-enhanced sapphire is very stable.

Care
Sapphire is hard and durable. Sapphires can be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaning machine, any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Tanzanite

One of the Newest and Bluest of Gems
Tanzanite is the “new kid on the block” of the gemstone kingdom. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967 and introduced to the American market in 1969, tanzanite has catapulted to incredible popularity in a very short amount of time. It was named in honor of the country in which it was found and introduced in the United States for the first time by Tiffany & Co. Available in colors ranging from blue to violet to purple, few gems can rival tanzanite’s depth of hue and purity of color. 

Tanzanite owes much of its beauty to an unusual gemological property called pleochroism, the ability to exhibit more than one color.  When viewed from different directions, tanzanite can look blue, violet, purple, bronze or gray. Before a tanzanite is faceted, the gemstone cutter studies the crystal and decides which directional orientation will show the best color. Most cutters will try to produce a pure blue tanzanite, but cutting to achieve a blue color sacrifices a lot of weight and results in a smaller and more costly finished gem. Yet the blue of a well-cut tanzanite is so breathtaking that most agree the sacrifice is well worth it. Tanzanite shows its strongest colors in sizes of 4 to 5 carats and larger. Smaller tanzanites are usually soft blue, light violet or lilac purple.

Birthstone
Tanzanite is sometimes used as an alternate for the traditional December birthstones turquoise and zircon. 

Origins
Tanzanite is mined in only one location in the world, the Merelani Hills of Tanzania , in eastern Africa .

Treatments
Virtually all tanzanite is gently heated to bring out its rich blue, violet and purple hues. Heating also minimizes the gem’s bronze or brownish tones.

Care
Tanzanite is a relatively hard gemstone, but it is not equally durable. Tanzanite may chip or break if exposed to moderate blows or sudden changes in temperature. It is best suited for wear in earrings and pendants. When mounted in a ring or bracelet, special attention should be paid to ensure the stone is well-protected. Tanzanite should never be cleaned with an ultrasonic or steam machine. Tanzanite can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and warm water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.

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Topaz

The Hues of an Ocean Sunset
Cast your eyes upon the ocean waters as the setting sun displays its dance of color, and you’ll discover all the rich spectral hues of topaz. On its cool side, topaz ranges from a soft sky blue to the richest and most vivid aquas and greenish blues imaginable.  Warmer tones of topaz take on the golden hue of a fine chardonnay or the blush of a tree ripened peach. Other colors range from rich, warm browns to lusty variations of orange and cinnamon. Some of the most rare and exceptional shades of topaz include rich pinks and sherry reds.

Topaz owes its long-lasting popularity to many things, but chief among these is its remarkable combination of beauty and affordability. Found in many different colors and sizes, topaz continues today to be one of the world’s most desirable and sought after gemstones.

Birthstone
Topaz is the birthstone for November. In recent years blue topaz has been used as an alternate birthstone for December.

Origins
The most prolific sources for topaz are Brazil and Nigeria . Topaz is also found in Myanmar , Russia , Sri Lanka , and the United States .

Treatments
Topaz is routinely treated to bring out its best color. When enhanced by heat, shades of brown, orange and yellow often change to pink. A wide variety of rich blue and greenish blue shades can be created using a combination of heat and irradiation. The color of enhanced topaz is usually very stable.

Care
Topaz is a hard gemstone that is very resistant to scratching, but because of its internal structure it may break or split if subjected to hard blows or sudden changes in temperature. Topaz should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaning machine. Topaz can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush. Be sure to rinse and dry your jewelry thoroughly after cleaning. 

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Tourmaline

King of Color
Pick a color – any color – and you’ll find a beautiful tourmaline to match. Occurring in more colors and combinations of colors than any other gem variety, tourmaline offers both vibrancy and beauty. And if an incredible range of colors among different tourmalines isn’t enough, individual crystals can vary in color along their length or width. Gems cut from these multi-colored crystals may in fact show two or more color combinations in one gemstone!

Tourmaline has been historically confused with many other gemstones, and understandably so. The finest greens can rival an emerald or tsavorite garnet. Beautiful yellow and red tourmalines mimic the look of fine fancy sapphires. A relatively recent discovery of tourmalines in 1989 in the Paraiba state of Brazil revealed brilliant hues of blues and greens more vivid than any ever seen before. These Paraiba tourmalines have been described as neon green, electric blue and sizzling turquoise. Tourmaline’s colorful nature, increased availability and attractive affordability have led to a tremendous growth in its popularity over the past 20 years.

Birthstone
Pink tourmaline is a popular alternate for the month of October.

Origins
Some of the finest examples of tourmaline today are mined in Southern California near San Diego . Other important sources include Brazil , Sri Lanka , Madagascar and Africa . The state of Maine is an important historical source for tourmaline and still produces small quantities today. 

Treatments
Some tourmalines are heated or irradiated to bring out their best color. Some treated tourmalines may fade if exposed to high heat or very prolonged exposure to intense light.

Care
Tourmaline is a hard gemstone that is resistant to both scratching and breaking, but it should be protected from sharp blows or sudden changes in temperature. Because of the natural internal characteristics found in some tourmalines, especially pinks and reds, ultrasonic cleaning machines should not be used.  Tourmaline can be cleaned with most any commercial jewelry cleaner or plain soap and water using a soft brush.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cultured Pearl ?

Cultured Pearls result from a small irritant (usually a natural shell bead and/or piece of fleshy tissue) implanted into living oysters (Akoya and South Sea pearls) or mussels (Freshwater pearls). The oysters or mussels secrete a substance called "nacre" which bonds to the irritant. The resulting layers of nacre form the pearls.

 Are Cultured Pearls and simulated pearls the same thing?

No. Cultured Pearls form over time inside the oyster or mussel in their natural environment. Simulated, imitation and "faux" pearls are man-made from a variety of products.

 What makes some Cultured Pearls more expensive than others?

Because Cultured Pearls are organic gemstones formed by nature no two pearls are exactly alike. A variety of factors go into determining the quality and price of pearl jewelry. Some characteristics that determine Cultured Pearl costs are:

Luster

Luster is the glow of the pearl and its brilliance to the human eye. The longer the pearl is left in the oyster to grow its nacre casing the higher the luster. For cultured pearl experts, luster is perhaps the most important indicator in evaluating cultured pearl quality. Luster is what separates the inferior pearl from the superior and the ordinary from the extraordinary. Luster is what many experts term the heart and soul of the sea-grown gem. Throughout history, this unique luster has separated pearls from all other gems.

Surface condition

The fewer the natural markings or spots on the pearl’s visible surface, the more expensive the pearl. Surface quality refers specifically to the abundance or absence of physical blemishes or flaws. When evaluating surface (the trade uses such terms as blemish, spotting and cleanliness), remember that cultured pearls are grown by live oysters in nature. As such, there are many uncontrollable forces that affect the surface.

Shape

The more spherical (rounder) and symmetrical the pearl the more valuable it will be. Baroque pearls (any unusually shaped and asymmetrical pearl) can be very attractive and are usually less expensive than round pearls. shapes range in descending order of value from round to semi-round, from off-round to oval and from drop to baroque. It's important to understand that in pearl industry lingo, generally the shapes from round to drop are pretty symmetrical, while anything baroque denotes a pearl that is completely asymmetrical or free-form. The aforementioned shapes usually occur in Japanese akoya cultured pearls as well as Tahitian, South Sea and freshwater pearls.

Color

Pearls are available in a rainbow of colors, for example, pinkish (often called rose), silvery white, greenish white, creamy, golden, gray, cognac and black. Color enhancement is considered the norm for both colored and white base pearls. Color consistency effects value; however, current fashion trends and color demand conditions also effect pearl prices. Cultured pearls come in a variety of colors from rosé to black. While the color of a pearl is really a matter of the wearer’s preference, usually rosé or silver/white pearls tend to look best on fair skins while cream and gold toned pearls are flattering to darker complexions

Size

Pearl diameter is measured in millimeters. Generally, the larger the pearl, the more rare it is and the more valuable. Cultured pearls are measured by their diameter in millimeters. They can be smaller than one millimeter in the case of tiny seed pearls, or as large as twenty millimeters for a big South Sea pearl. The larger the pearl, other factors being equal, the more valuable it will be.

Matching

For pearl necklaces the overall look is very important, regardless of the quality of the individual pearls. The more uniform and aesthetically pleasing two or more pearls look together the more time was spent matching the pearls. This time to match pearls is reflected in the cost. Matching refers to pairs or strands, and addresses uniformity of color, luster, shape, spotting and graduation. If colors are intentionally mixed, it refers to the attractiveness of the combination. Even in ‘uniform’ strands, there will be gradation in size from the center pearl to those at the ends. Each pearl in a strand has been selected to be placed between its neighbor on each side, and there should be no noticeable difference between pearls that are side-by-side. Bead stringer not trained in stringing pearls may inadvertently re-string pearls in the incorrect order, disrupting the imperceptible ‘blend’ of one pearl to the next and decreasing the value of the strand.

Rarity

Because pearls are not cut or polished when removed from the oyster or mussel, certain sizes, qualities and colors may from time to time be in scarce supply. Overall health of pearl growing oysters and mussels effect pearl size and quality availability.

 What's the difference between natural and cultured pearls?

Natural pearls, just as the name implies, were formed when irritants entered the oyster by accident. This is a pretty rare occurrence and doesn't result in many jewelry quality pearls being available.

About 100 years ago a Japanese pearl farmer developed a process whereby a small piece of shell could be inserted into living Akoya oysters. These oysters were then put back into the water and the pearl forming process began. Today cultured pearls account for the majority of pearls used in jewelry.

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