Will it hurt a ruby?

[karenleah15]

I have been reading old posts abut cleaning solutions. I have diamond and ruby jewelery. Would it hurt a ruby to soak it in 2 parts water and one part amonia? Also is it best to use distilled water if you want to keep the solution for awhile or is it best to make new solution each time?

 

[loupe]

Karen,

The ruby should not be affected by the ammonia/water solution. You do not need distilled water. Tap water is fine. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the pavilions of your gems and the backs of all surfaces that come in contact with your skin. Make sure that you rinse thoroughly after you remove the ring from the solution and pat dry. You do not want an ammonia burn. Discard the solution safely, there is no need to save it.









"Gold there is, and rubies in abundance, but lips that speak knowledge are a rare jewel."

 

[Maxine]

what''s an ammonia burn??????

 

[karenleah15]

Good question!

 

[icelady]

Date: 7/2/2005 5:01:51 PM
Author: Maxine
what''s an ammonia burn??????

I believe that she means if there is any ammonia residue left on the ring, as you wear the ring the ammonia will irritate your skin and possibly cause a burning of the skin. Rinsing is essential.

I did think that using distilled water was to prevent water spots that occur from using tap water.

 

[karenleah15]

Well that makes sense. You HAVE to get all that chemical off.

I thought using distilled wated helped with water spots also. I will try it and see. Can''t hurt right?