But when shopping for fine jewellery, one of the main things to take into account is the durability of the stone. This refers to how easily it can get scratched or damaged.
So how do you measure it?
Typically, the strength of a gemstone is measured using Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Created by geologist and mineralogist Friedrich Mohs, this tool rates the stone on the basis of its resistance to scratches.
The scale contains 10 values, with 1 indicating the softest or most malleable and 10 being the hardest.
Which stone is on the top of the list?
Diamonds are the hardest stones on earth with a 10/10 score. This gem will not get scratched by anything other than another diamond. Following the diamond is moissanite, ruby, and sapphire; all of these stones have a rating of 9.0 and above.
More often than not, important and valuable pieces of jewellery like the engagement ring and wedding band are embellished with gemstones that score at least 8.0 and above. The lower-rated jewels tend to be reserved for cocktail and other styles.
That said, almost every stone can be worn daily, provided you can take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Some of these safety measures are mentioned below.
1. Always store in separate cases
If pushed against each other, it is quite common for the harder gemstones to scratch your softer jewels. To prevent this, store each piece in a separate case, box or pouch away from the others.
2. Keep away from harsh light
Bright light (both natural and artificial) may cause the colour of some gems to fade over a period of time. Hence, it’s important to store your pieces in a cool, dark area.
3. Remove it when participating in strenuous activities
To protect your gems from getting scratched, avoid wearing them while performing any kind of rigorous tasks, including cleaning the dishes, exercising, gardening, etc.
4. Keep away from chemicals
Strong chemicals may alter the composition of the gem and affect its brilliance. So, make sure that you keep your jewels away from seemingly harmless everyday items, such as moisturizers, perfumes, cosmetics and sanitizers, among others.
Additionally, keep aside your jewellery before you go for a swim. This is because the chlorine or salt present in the water could damage your stone’s surface.
5. Clean at least once a month
Your stones need to be cleaned at regular intervals to retain their brilliance. You can do this at home by following the steps mentioned below:
- Dip the jewellery in mild soap-water solution.
- With a soft-bristle brush or cloth, gently scrub away the dirt that may have lodged itself into the crevices of the piece.
- Place the jewellery under running water to remove any remaining soap residue.
- Wipe it gently with a lint-free cloth and leave it to dry completely.
Remember, if you’re unsure about cleaning at home, do not hesitate to visit a professional jeweller. Not only will they get the gem sparkling again, but may also help fix a loose setting or superficial damage.
