| Care |
Turquoise is a beautiful and unique gemstone, but it requires specific care to maintain its vibrant blue-green hues and prevent damage. Here's how to care for your turquoise beaded necklace:
Protecting your necklace
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
• Turquoise is porous and can easily absorb chemicals, which can cause discoloration and damage. This includes lotions, perfumes, hairspray, makeup, household cleaners, and chlorinated water.
• Always apply these products before putting on your necklace.
Avoid Water:
• While turquoise can tolerate brief exposure to water, prolonged soaking should be avoided. It's best to remove your necklace before showering, swimming, or doing anything that involves prolonged water exposure.
Limit Exposure to Heat:
• High heat can cause discoloration and surface damage to turquoise. Avoid leaving your necklace in direct sunlight, hot cars, or near heating elements.
Handle with Care:
• Turquoise ranks 5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratches and chipping. Handle your necklace gently and avoid bumping or dropping it on hard surfaces.
Remove During Strenuous Activity:
• Take off your necklace before exercising, doing housework, or engaging in activities that could expose it to chemicals, sweat, or physical impact.
Cleaning your necklace
Dry Cleaning:
• For light dust and oils, gently wipe your necklace with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear.
Gentle Cleaning (with water):
• If your necklace needs a deeper clean, dampen a soft cloth with plain, lukewarm water and gently wipe the beads. Do not soak the necklace, as this can harm the turquoise and weaken the stringing material.
Mild Soap (if needed):
• If water alone isn't enough, add a tiny drop of mild, unscented soap to lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth with this solution and gently clean the beads. Rinse with a separate clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue and then pat dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning Metal Accents:
• If your necklace has metal components, you can polish them with a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish, according to The Potlatch. Be careful to avoid contact with the turquoise when using polishing cloths or compounds.
Avoid Damaging Cleaning Methods:
• Never use commercial jewelry cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, or harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, or baking soda on turquoise, as these can severely damage or discolor the stones.
Storing your necklace
Cool, Dry Place:
• Store your necklace in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. A drawer or cabinet in your bedroom is suitable.
Separate Storage:
• Store your necklace separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and tangling. A soft cloth pouch or a compartmentalized jewelry box is ideal.
Prevent Tarnish (for silver components):
• If your necklace has silver accents, consider storing it in an airtight container or a bag with an anti-tarnish strip to minimize tarnish.
By following these care instructions, you can preserve the natural beauty and vibrancy of your turquoise beaded necklace for years to come. If you have concerns about the condition of your necklace or need specialized cleaning, consult a professional jeweler experienced with turquoise jewelry.
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