Tourmaline is a stunning gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, making it a favorite choice for jewelry lovers. However, like any precious stone, it requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. One of the most common questions about tourmaline jewelry is whether it can get wet. In this article, we will explore the properties of tourmaline and provide valuable information on how to care for it, especially when it comes to moisture and water exposure.
What Is Tourmaline?
Tourmaline is a complex silicate mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, blue, yellow, and even black. Its unique color variety is what makes it a popular choice in fine jewelry. It is often found in nature as long, prismatic crystals and is known for its durability and vibrant hues.
Chemical Composition of Tourmaline
The chemical composition of tourmaline varies, which contributes to the different colors and properties of the stone. The mineral is a combination of boron, aluminum, and silicate, along with other elements.
Depending on the specific elements present, tourmaline can be found in several different varieties, such as:
Elbaite: The most common type, found in various colors.
Dravite: Typically brown or yellow-brown in color.
Schorl: The most common black variety.
Liddicoatite: Known for its vibrant pink and green hues.
Each type of tourmaline has slightly different physical properties, which is important when considering how it reacts to exposure to water.
Can Tourmaline Get Wet?
The short answer is yes, tourmaline can get wet, but it’s important to understand the implications of water exposure and how to properly care for the stone to avoid damage. Tourmaline is generally considered a durable stone, but it is not as resistant to water and other elements as some other gemstones, such as diamonds or sapphires.
Tourmaline’s Hardness and Water Resistance
On the Mohs scale of hardness, tourmaline ranks between 7 and 7.5, which means it is moderately hard. This hardness makes it resistant to scratches, but not impervious to damage. Water exposure can affect the stone in various ways, particularly if it is subjected to prolonged or harsh conditions.
Here are some considerations to keep in mind when it comes to water and tourmaline:
Freshwater: Occasional contact with freshwater, like rain or washing your hands, is generally safe for tourmaline. However, it’s always best to remove your tourmaline jewelry before showering or swimming.
Saltwater: Saltwater can cause damage to the setting and metal of tourmaline jewelry. The salt can lead to corrosion of the metal, which can weaken the stone’s setting over time.
Hot Water: Exposing tourmaline to hot water or sudden temperature changes can cause thermal shock, which may crack or damage the stone.
The Effect of Moisture on Tourmaline Jewelry Settings
In addition to the gemstone itself, moisture can affect the setting and metal of the jewelry. Many jewelry settings are made from metals such as gold, silver, or platinum, which are susceptible to tarnishing and corrosion when exposed to water, especially saltwater or chlorinated water.
Tourmaline settings can become weakened by prolonged exposure to moisture, particularly if the metal is not high-quality or if the jewelry is not well-maintained. To ensure the longevity of both the tourmaline and its setting, it’s best to keep your jewelry dry whenever possible.
How to Care for Tourmaline Jewelry
While tourmaline can withstand some moisture, it’s important to take steps to protect it from water exposure.
Here are some tips on how to care for your tourmaline jewelry:
1. Remove Jewelry Before Getting Wet
To prevent any potential damage, it is always best to remove your tourmaline jewelry before getting it wet. Whether you’re washing your hands, swimming in a pool, or taking a shower, it’s safer to take off your jewelry to avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
2. Clean Tourmaline Jewelry Gently
If your tourmaline jewelry becomes dirty, it’s important to clean it carefully. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Instead, use a soft cloth or a mild soap solution to gently clean the stone. Be sure to dry the jewelry thoroughly after cleaning.
3. Store Tourmaline Jewelry Properly
When not in use, store your tourmaline jewelry in a dry, safe place. Keep it away from moisture, humidity, and direct sunlight. A soft pouch or jewelry box with a velvet lining is an ideal place to store your jewelry to protect it from dust and scratches.
4. Avoid Exposing Tourmaline to Harsh Chemicals
Chemicals such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning agents can damage the surface of tourmaline and its setting. Always remove your jewelry before applying these substances.
5. Regularly Check for Damage
It’s a good idea to have your tourmaline jewelry checked by a professional jeweler every once in a while. This will ensure that the stone is secure in its setting and that there are no signs of damage from moisture or wear.
Can Tourmaline Be Worn in the Shower or Pool?
It is not recommended to wear tourmaline jewelry in the shower or while swimming in the pool. The combination of moisture, soap, shampoo, or chlorine can cause harm to both the stone and its setting. Prolonged exposure to water can weaken the stone, leading to cracks or discoloration over time. Moreover, the metal setting may tarnish or corrode from prolonged exposure to water.
Tourmaline Jewelry and Saltwater
Saltwater, particularly from the ocean, is more damaging to tourmaline jewelry compared to freshwater. The salt can get into the setting and cause corrosion, which could loosen the stone or cause it to fall out. Additionally, saltwater can contribute to the degradation of the metal, especially if it’s not properly cleaned and dried after contact.
To prevent any damage, always remove your tourmaline jewelry before swimming in the ocean or participating in water sports.
Can You Clean Tourmaline with Water?
While it’s okay to clean tourmaline with water, it’s important to avoid soaking it in water for long periods of time. Use a soft cloth or a gentle cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime from the surface of the gemstone. If you decide to use water, ensure that the stone is properly dried afterward.
Cleaning Tourmaline Jewelry
Soapy Water: Fill a bowl with warm, soapy water and soak the jewelry for a few minutes. Gently scrub with a soft brush to remove dirt.
Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the jewelry with clean water and dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaning, as they can cause damage to the tourmaline. These methods may cause the gemstone to lose its shine or even crack if it is exposed to high levels of heat or pressure.
Conclusion
In summary, while tourmaline is a relatively durable gemstone, it is important to protect it from prolonged exposure to moisture, particularly hot water, saltwater, and harsh chemicals. By taking simple precautions, such as removing your jewelry before swimming or showering, cleaning it gently, and storing it in a safe place, you can ensure that your tourmaline jewelry remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Tourmaline is a beautiful gemstone, but like all precious stones, it requires a little extra care to maintain its vibrant colors and sparkle. Treat it with the same care you would any other precious gemstone, and it will reward you with its lasting beauty.
Related topics:
- What Is Pink Tourmaline Chemical Composition?
- Why is Pink Tourmaline So Expensive?
- How to Identify Real Black Tourmaline?
