Multicolor Stone Cube Earrings

Jewelry crafted with multicolor stone cubes, while visually captivating, requires careful handling due to the varying properties of the gemstones used. Each stone has unique characteristics regarding hardness, porosity, and sensitivity to chemicals, heat, and light.

Here's how to care for your multicolor stone cube jewelry:

Identify the materials
The first step is to identify the types of gemstones in your jewelry. Common stone types and their general care needs include:
• Harder Stones (e.g., Quartz varieties like Amethyst, Citrine; Sapphire, Ruby, Garnet): Generally durable, but can scratch softer materials.
Softer/Porous Stones (e.g., Opal, Pearl, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Moonstone, Emerald):
• More delicate and sensitive to impacts, chemicals, and sometimes water.
Treated Stones:
• Many gemstones undergo treatments (e.g., heat treatment, dyeing, oiling, resin filling) to enhance color or clarity. These treatments can affect how the stone reacts to cleaning and environmental factors.

General handling and wearing
Put it on Last:
• Apply cosmetics, lotions, perfumes, and hairspray before putting on your jewelry to minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
• Remove jewelry before cleaning, swimming, or handling household chemicals like bleach or ammonia, which can damage the stones and settings.
Handle Gently:
• Avoid dropping the jewelry onto hard surfaces as some stones can chip or break.
Remove During Activities:
• Take off jewelry before exercising, gardening, or any strenuous activities to prevent impact damage or scratches.
Check Settings Regularly:
• Inspect the settings for any looseness or damage and address them promptly, possibly with a jeweler's help.

Cleaning multicolor stone cube jewelry
• Always use the gentlest cleaning method suitable for the most delicate stone in your piece.
Wipe After Each Wear:
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe each stone cube to remove oils, dust, and residues.
Warm Water and Mild Soap (for hardier stones):
• Create a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. JTV recommends soaking for 5-10 minutes and brushing gently with a soft-bristled brush, paying attention to the underside of the stones. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Avoid Soaking Porous Stones:
• Do not soak porous stones like opals or turquoise, which can absorb water and become discolored or damaged. For emeralds, some experts recommend a gentle wipe with a damp cloth.
No Ultrasonic or Steam Cleaners:
• Avoid using these as they can damage delicate stones, fracture-filled stones, or treated gemstones.
Metal Components:
• If the jewelry has metal components, clean them appropriately. Silver, for example, can be polished with a polishing cloth or a mild silver cleaning solution.

Storage
Separate Storage:
• Store each piece of jewelry individually in a soft pouch or a lined compartment in a jewelry box to prevent scratching.
Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat:
• Store jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat, which can fade colors or damage certain stones.
Manage Humidity:
• For moisture-sensitive stones like pearls and opals, maintaining a slightly humid environment might be beneficial, says Nelson Coleman Jewelers. You can also use silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture in humid environments.

By following these guidelines, you can help preserve the beauty and longevity of your multicolor stone cube jewelry for years to come.