| Care |
Red turquoise, while visually stunning, is generally not a naturally occurring color of turquoise. Instead, it's often dyed or created from other minerals like howlite or magnesite that have been treated to mimic the look of red turquoise. Regardless of whether your "red turquoise" is dyed genuine turquoise, dyed howlite, or another material, proper care is essential to maintain its color and integrity.
Gentle handling and wearing
Remove During Activities:
• Take off your red turquoise jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to chemicals, water, or potential impacts. This includes tasks like swimming, showering, cleaning with harsh detergents, or engaging in strenuous physical activity.
Apply Cosmetics Last:
• Put on lotions, perfumes, hairspray, and makeup before wearing your jewelry. These chemicals can discolor or damage turquoise, even if it's dyed.
Avoid Impacts:
• Red turquoise, like natural turquoise, is relatively soft (Mohs hardness of 5-6 for genuine turquoise) and can chip or break when dropped or knocked against hard surfaces. Handle your jewelry gently.
Protect from Sun and Heat:
• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can fade the color of dyed stones and potentially damage the material itself.
Check Settings:
• Regularly inspect your jewelry for any loose prongs or settings and have them repaired by a professional jeweler to avoid losing the stones.
Cleaning
Always use the gentlest cleaning method suitable for the material.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
• Never use commercial jewelry cleaners, ammonia, bleach, or any abrasive substances on red turquoise. These can strip the dye, damage the stone, or etch the surface.
Wipe After Each Wear:
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth, such as a microfiber or jewelry polishing cloth, to gently wipe away oils, dust, and residues after each wear.
Warm Water and Mild Soap (with caution):
• You can gently wipe the beads with a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a small amount of mild, alcohol-free soap. However, some sources advise against using even mild soap on turquoise due to its porosity.
Avoid Soaking:
• Do not soak the jewelry in water, as this can weaken the stone, tarnish metal components, or potentially cause the dye to bleed or fade.
Soft Brush (if needed):
• A soft-bristled brush, like a baby toothbrush, can be used to gently clean around settings or in crevices. Be very careful not to scratch the stone.
Rinse and Dry Thoroughly:
• Rinse the jewelry briefly and thoroughly under cool, running water to remove soap residue. Pat dry immediately with a clean, soft cloth or paper towel, ensuring no moisture remains.
No Ultrasonic or Steam Cleaners:
• Avoid these as they can damage turquoise and potentially affect dyed materials.
Storage
Cool, Dry, Dark Place:
• Store red turquoise jewelry in a cool, dry, and dark environment, away from direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
Separate Storage:
• Store each piece individually in a soft pouch or a lined compartment in a jewelry box to prevent scratching from harder gemstones or other jewelry pieces.
Consider Anti-Tarnish:
• If the jewelry has metal components like sterling silver, consider storing it in an airtight bag or with anti-tarnish slips to prevent tarnishing.
By following these specific care instructions, you can help preserve the beauty and vibrant color of your red turquoise jewelry for years to come.
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