Spinel is a durable and stunning gemstone, known for its vibrant colors and brilliance. With a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, it is suitable for everyday wear, but proper care is essential to maintain its sparkle and beauty.
Daily Care
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
Keep spinel jewelry away from household cleaning agents, perfumes, and cosmetics, as these can damage the stone or its setting.
Remove spinel jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools or handling chemicals.
Prevent Physical Damage:
While spinel is relatively hard, it can chip or scratch under significant impact. Avoid wearing spinel jewelry during activities like sports, gardening, or heavy lifting.
Storage:
Store spinel pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from contact with harder gemstones like diamonds.
Cleaning Your Spinel
Mild Soap and Warm Water:
Mix lukewarm water with a few drops of mild dish soap.
Gently scrub the gemstone using a soft toothbrush or cloth, focusing on areas where dirt and oils may accumulate.
Rinse Thoroughly:
Rinse the gemstone under lukewarm water to remove all soap residue, which can dull its brilliance.
Dry Carefully:
Pat the jewelry dry with a soft, lint-free cloth to restore its shine.
Professional Cleaning and Inspections
Polishing: Take your spinel jewelry to a professional jeweler for cleaning and polishing as needed to maintain its luster.
Check the Setting: Have the settings inspected regularly to ensure the stone is secure, especially for rings or pieces worn frequently.
Things to Avoid
Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners:
Spinel is generally safe in these cleaners, but if the stone has inclusions or fractures, the vibrations or heat could cause damage. When in doubt, clean by hand.
Extreme Temperatures:
Avoid exposing spinel to sudden changes in temperature, as this can lead to cracking or damage.
Prolonged Sunlight:
While spinel is resistant to fading, long-term exposure to intense sunlight can affect its color in rare cases.
Spinel Longevity
With proper care, spinel can remain vibrant and beautiful for a lifetime. Its durability, combined with regular cleaning and mindful handling, makes it an excellent choice for everyday and heirloom jewelry. Spinel’s captivating brilliance and range of colors ensure it will continue to dazzle for years to come.
Click here for our complete jewelry care guide.
