How to store gemstone jewelry to make it last longer
Once we start to own several pieces of jewelry, proper storage becomes essential, as it directly affects the longevity of the pieces and the beauty of each individual gemstone.
Gemstones are mainly divided into hard stones (those with a Mohs hardness of 9, second only to diamonds at 10), which include all sapphires such as rubies, blue sapphires, yellow sapphires, and green sapphires, and soft stones, which are any gemstones other than sapphires with a Mohs hardness lower than 9. Even though hard stones are more resistant to scratches than soft stones, they can still become scratched, chipped, or broken if subjected to strong impact or forceful abrasion. Therefore, they should be stored in a jewelry box that is sturdy enough to withstand pressure or accidental drops. Each piece of jewelry should be kept in a separate box or bag to prevent them from rubbing against each other or against metal, which could scratch the surface of the stones.
Taking care not to knock them while wearing them, or making a habit of removing your jewelry during activities that pose a risk of scratching, impact, or high heat (some gemstones have undergone quality enhancement processes, and heat may alter their properties)—such as cleaning the house, exercising, or lifting heavy objects—is a great way to preserve your gemstone jewelry. Finally, remember to clean them regularly! Once cleaned, they will look as beautiful and sparkly as a brand-new ring. :)