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1. If you drop them, they will break. If they don't, you got lucky. Handle your items with love and care. Often when putting on a necklace, I have had the clasp slip out of my hand and as the necklace drops so does the pendant. Sometimes a quick hand and eye can catch the pendant but the best method for me is to prepare for this by putting a towel or soft item on the bathroom counter and lean over it until I am sure I have the necklace properly clasped. The stones are hard not to want to examine and look at up close due to their beauty. Polished stones can slip out of your hand in an instant. Cup a hand underneath as you hold it up or put it in a flat hand. Even those of us who regularly handle these items have mishaps and it is devasting to see a flawless polished stone hit the floor.
2. Store your gemstone jewelry separately from other jewelry pieces. Some stones are harder than others and the harder stones may scratch the softer ones. All stones are harder than metal and could scratch the metal finish on your other jewelry pieces. You can keep them in a separate box, jewelry pouch, ziplock bag, etc. It will also help reduce tarnishing of the metal.
3. Some jewelry cleaners will harm certain stones. Porous gemstones can absorb chemicals or soaps. Ammonia can damage or discolor some stones. Perfume, hairspray, soap and cosmetics can also damage some stones. Ultrasonic cleaners can harm some stones. Ionic cleaners are safer but sterling silver should be removed within seconds. Using gentle, hand-cleaning methods such as a Sunshine Polishing Cloth or cleaning in a mild soap and warm (not hot) water solution using a very soft brush is probably best.
4. Remove your jewelry if participating in strenuous ativities or dealing with chemicals.
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