Aquamarine, a stunning member of the beryl family, is renowned for its serene blue-to-blue-green hues that evoke the tranquility of the ocean. As a jewelry appraiser, understanding the factors that can damage aquamarine is crucial for ensuring its longevity and preserving its beauty. This guide will delve into the various aspects that can compromise the integrity of aquamarine gemstones, presented in a logical, easy-to-understand manner.
Physical Trauma
Aquamarine, while relatively durable with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, is still susceptible to physical trauma.
Knocks and Drops: Accidental drops or impacts can cause chips, cracks, or even shatter the gemstone. Always handle aquamarine jewelry with care and store it in a padded jewelry box to cushion it from sudden shocks.
Rough Handling: Rough handling during cleaning or wear can scratch the surface. Use a soft cloth and gentle motions when cleaning aquamarine to avoid abrasions.
Heat and Temperature Extremes
Aquamarine is sensitive to sudden changes in temperature and prolonged exposure to high heat.
Thermal Shock: Rapid temperature changes can cause internal stress fractures. Avoid exposing aquamarine to extreme heat sources such as ovens, stovetops, or direct sunlight.
Long-Term Heat: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can fade the gemstone’s color and alter its clarity. Store aquamarine jewelry in a cool, dry place to maintain its original characteristics.
Chemical Exposure
Certain chemicals can react adversely with aquamarine, causing damage to its surface and internal structure.
Acidic and Basic Substances: Aquamarine should not come into contact with harsh chemicals like bleach, detergents, or acids. These substances can etch the surface, dulling its brilliance and potentially causing permanent damage.
Cosmetics and Perfumes: Many cosmetics, perfumes, and hairsprays contain chemicals that can harm aquamarine. Apply these products before putting on your aquamarine jewelry to minimize contact.
Swimming and Cleaning: Chlorine and other chemicals in swimming pools and hot tubs can damage aquamarine. Remove your jewelry before swimming or engaging in activities that may expose it to these chemicals.
Ultraviolet Light
While aquamarine is not as sensitive to UV light as some other gemstones, prolonged exposure can still have detrimental effects.
Fading: Over time, constant exposure to sunlight can cause the gemstone’s color to fade. Store aquamarine jewelry in a dark, cool place when not in use to preserve its vibrant hue.
Window Exposure: Even indirect sunlight through windows can gradually affect aquamarine. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, even if it’s filtered through glass.
Improper Cleaning Techniques
Using the wrong cleaning methods or tools can scratch or dull aquamarine’s surface.
Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads. Instead, use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and a mild, gemstone-safe cleaner.
Steam Cleaners: High-pressure steam cleaners can force water into the gemstone’s fractures, causing internal damage. Stick to gentle cleaning methods to safeguard aquamarine’s integrity.
Ultrasonic Cleaners: While some gemstones can safely be cleaned in ultrasonic cleaners, aquamarine is not one of them. The vibrations can cause internal fractures or loosen prongs, leading to gemstone loss.
Storage Considerations
Proper storage is vital for protecting aquamarine from scratches, chips, and other forms of damage.
Separate Storage: Store aquamarine jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent it from being scratched by harder gemstones like diamonds.
Padded Boxes: Use padded jewelry boxes or fabric-lined compartments to cushion aquamarine and prevent it from banging against other items.
Humidity Control: Maintain a consistent humidity level in your storage area to prevent aquamarine from absorbing moisture, which can cause internal stress and cracking.
Setting and Mounting
The setting and mounting of aquamarine can also impact its durability and longevity.
Prong Settings: Ensure that the prongs holding the gemstone are secure and tight. Loose prongs can allow the gemstone to move, increasing the risk of damage.
Bezel Settings: Bezel settings provide additional protection by fully enclosing the gemstone’s edge. This can be particularly beneficial for aquamarine, which may have natural fractures or inclusions.
Metal Choice: Choose a metal that complements aquamarine and resists corrosion. White gold, platinum, and silver are excellent choices as they don’t react with the gemstone and maintain a sleek, modern look.
Wear and Tear Over Time
Even with careful handling and storage, wear and tear are inevitable over time.
Regular Inspections: Schedule regular inspections with a jeweler to check for signs of wear, such as loose prongs or scratched surfaces. Prompt repairs can prevent further damage.
Resizing and Maintenance: If your ring size changes or if the setting becomes worn, have the jewelry resized or repaired by a professional to ensure it fits comfortably and securely.
Repolishing: Over time, aquamarine may lose its shine due to normal wear and tear. A professional repolishing can restore its brilliance without damaging the gemstone.
Magnetic field interference and Energy Cleansing
While some believe in the concept of energy cleansing and the impact of electromagnetic fields on gemstones, these are not scientifically proven factors that damage aquamarine. However, it’s worth noting that some gemstone enthusiasts advocate certain practices for maintaining the “energy” of their gemstones.
Degaussing: Some people believe that exposing aquamarine to strong magnetic fields can “cleanse” it of negative energy. While this won’t physically harm the gemstone, it’s not a scientifically validated method for preserving its condition.
Avoiding Electronics: Some advise keeping aquamarine away from electronics to prevent “energy interference.” Again, this is more of a belief than a proven fact, but it doesn’t hurt to store your jewelry in a place away from electronic devices as a precaution.
Conclusion
Aquamarine is a beautiful and relatively durable gemstone, but it still requires careful handling and proper care to maintain its enchanting beauty. By understanding the factors that can damage aquamarine—including physical trauma, heat and temperature extremes, chemical exposure, ultraviolet light, improper cleaning techniques, improper storage, setting and mounting issues, wear and tear over time, and beliefs around energy cleansing—you can take proactive steps to protect your investment. Regular inspections, proper cleaning, and storing your aquamarine jewelry in a safe, controlled environment will help ensure that it retains its vibrant color, clarity, and brilliance for generations to come.
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