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How Do I Clean Silver?
Some cleaners which are ideal for sterling silver may be too harsh for the set gemstone. If gem-set, use a soft toothbrush to gently clean the surfaces of the gemstones. Ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended. Natural body oils, soap and regular daily dust can build up on your jewellery.If more serious cleaning is required, then use a good jeweller’s rouge or jewellery cleaning dip. They can damage pearls and gem-set jewellery. A mild soap in water is usually enough to clean it. Remember the backs! Gently pat the jewellery dry. However, if your silver is gem-set see below for advice on specific gemstones to be sure what is safe to use.
All gemstones have some characteristics
Many gemstones are used in even the most expensive jewellery depending on the brand name of the designer, fashion trends, market supply, treatments etc. Others are too common and are given a semi-precious status. Most gemstones have good hardness and a high index of refraction.All gemstones have some characteristics falling short of perfection though; even the seemingly perfect Diamond has four directions of cleavage. Since quartz is everywhere especially in common dirt and dust. Any material that is softer may be scratched during ordinary wear. Nevertheless, diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds still have a reputation that exceeds those of other gemstones.
Diamonds were believed to hold medicinal value
Diamonds were believed to hold medicinal value during the Dark Ages. Square cut diamonds add a modern touch to bands, pendants and drop earrings as well. There were instructions that those suffering illnesses or having wounds should hold a diamond in the hand. And then make a sign of the cross for healing. Some even believed that ingesting diamonds could assist in recovery and even a cure from various illnesses.Brilliant square princess cut diamonds in engagement rings and diamond stud earrings are de-rigueur. As time progressed into the Middle Ages, diamonds were more often viewed as items of value rather than items of mystical healing powers. Square cut diamonds add a modern touch to bands, pendants and drop earrings as well. As a result of the growing demand and value of diamonds, mine owners began spreading rumors that diamonds were poisonous if swallowed.
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