Sapphires are stunning, colorful gemstones perfect for everyday wear. Second only to diamonds, they rank at a nine on the Mohs scale of hardness — making them durable options for daily jewelry like engagement rings or earrings as they're difficult to scratch or damage. With proper care and cleaning practices, sapphire jewelry can remain beautiful and intact for generations.
How to Clean a Sapphire Ring
At Home
Cleaning your sapphire jewelry at home requires few supplies and is both easy and safe.
Supplies
- Soft-bristle toothbrush
- Dish soap
- Warm water
- Microfiber or other soft towel
Steps
- Fill a small bowl with warm water and add a small amount of dish soap to it (about a teaspoon's worth). Mix until you see bubbles.
- Soak your jewelry in warm water for 5 minutes to allow any dirt or other grime to soften.
- Remove the jewelry from the water and gently clean it with the toothbrush. Make sure that the bristles clean the hard-to-reach areas for optimal shine.
- After ensuring a sink plug is in place, run the ring under fresh water to ensure all the soap is removed.
- Pat with the cloth until it's completely dry.
Leave It to the Professionals
In some cases, it's best to allow a jeweler to clean your sapphire jewelry for you. We suggest bringing it in for a cleaning if:
- If your sapphire jewelry is particularly delicate or antique
- If your sapphire jewelry needs a very deep clean (ultrasonic or steam-cleaning)
- If your sapphire jewelry also features other more delicate gemstones such as pearls, opals, or natural emeralds
How Often Should I Clean My Sapphire Jewelry?
We recommend cleaning your sapphire jewelry at home once a month if you wear it daily and every few months for items you wear less frequently. Every six months, we recommend a professional deep clean. If your sapphire jewelry is from Brilliant Earth, you can visit a showroom near you for a complimentary cleaning.
Sapphire Cleaning and Care Tips: What to Do
- Clean your sapphire jewelry regularly to upkeep sparkle and avoid build-up.
- Store your sapphire jewelry in its own section of a jewelry box or in a small, soft-cloth bag to keep it safe.
- Take off your sapphire jewelry during activities like rock climbing or swimming.
- Take off your sapphire jewelry when applying lotion, using household cleaners, or showering to further avoid build-up.
- Check your sapphire jewelry often to ensure there are no loose prongs.
- Insure your sapphire jewelry with a jewelry-specific insurer such as Lavalier.
Sapphire Care FAQ
What can damage a sapphire?
Sapphires are incredibly durable and difficult to damage without excessive force. We recommend avoiding harsh chemicals, abrasives, and extensive physical activity while wearing sapphire jewelry.
How do you clean a cloudy white sapphire?
Clean a cloudy white sapphire the same way you would clean a sapphire of any other color. Use extra effort to clean the pavilion as a cloudy appearance is often caused by dirt on the bottom of the stone.
Do sapphires scratch easily?
No, sapphires don't scratch easily and are durable enough to wear daily.
What is the best cleaner for sapphires?
The best cleaner for sapphires is warm water, dish soap, and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives.
