How to Clean and Care for Colombian Emerald Jewelry

Colombian emeralds are among the most prized gemstones in the world, but they're also more delicate than they look. Here's how to keep yours brilliant.

Why Colombian emeralds need special care?
Emeralds rank around 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale, softer than diamonds (10) and more prone to chipping or fracturing under pressure.

Many emeralds, including fine Colombian stones, are also lightly treated with natural oils during cutting to enhance their clarity, which is why exposure to heat, harsh chemicals, or ultrasonic cleaning can affect their appearance over time.

None of this makes emeralds fragile in everyday wear, it just means they deserve a gentler routine than diamonds or sapphires

"Emeralds carry natural inclusions called jardin, a sign of authenticity, not imperfection."

Emerald ring in finger, how to clean it

What to avoid ?

  • Physical impact: can cause fractures in the stone or damage to the metal setting
  • Chemicals: household cleaners, chlorine, and similar products can corrode or discolor metal
  • Water exposure: prolonged contact may tarnish metals and affect certain gemstones
  • Beauty products: lotion, perfume, or hairspray residue can dull the stone's shine
  • Sun and heat: high temperatures may cause discoloration or fractures in some gemstones
  • Storage contact: letting pieces touch each other in a drawer can cause scratches over time
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Earn Grain Ring in 18k yellow gold — Colombian emerald and baguette diamond herringbone band, 1Em Collection by GOHI ring on

The Right Way to Clean Your Emerald Jewelry

Skip ultrasonic and steam cleaners, the vibration and heat can be too aggressive for a stone with natural inclusions. Instead, clean your piece gently with room temperature water, a mild soap, and a soft cloth or brush, then pat it dry. For anything beyond a light at-home clean, it's worth having your jeweler take a look.

Jewelry Care guide

With the right care, a Colombian emerald piece is something you can wear for a lifetime and pass down for another.

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