Natural stones are what make handmade jewellery so interesting.
From the shifting colours of labradorite to the rich blue of turquoise and the deep red of garnet, each stone has its own appearance and character.
But natural doesn't automatically mean indestructible.
Different stones have different levels of hardness, toughness and sensitivity to chemicals, heat and light. Knowing a little about your jewellery can help you avoid unnecessary damage.
1. Perfume, cosmetics and household chemicals
Chemicals are one thing to be careful about when wearing jewellery made with natural stones.
Perfume, hairspray, cleaning products and other substances can affect certain stones, surface treatments, metal settings or finishes.
Some stones are porous or have been treated to improve their appearance or durability. These may be more vulnerable to chemicals than other materials.
A good general rule is to put jewellery on after applying cosmetics and remove it before cleaning the house.
Avoid using household cleaners on pieces containing natural stones unless the product is specifically suitable for every material in the design.
If your piece also includes sterling silver, read the guide on caring for sterling silver to understand which cleaning products are safe for the metal without harming the stones.
2. Water and moisture
Water doesn't damage every natural stone, but repeated or prolonged exposure can be unsuitable for some materials.
Turquoise, for example, can be porous and may be affected by moisture, oils and chemicals. Some stones are also dyed, impregnated or otherwise treated, which can change how they respond to water.
Jewellery containing pearls, metal components or stringing materials may have additional sensitivities. Pearls are particularly delicate around moisture — read the guide on how to clean pearls safely for more detail.
Remove your jewellery before swimming, bathing, showering, or exercising, especially if you're unsure how the stones have been treated.
3. Knocks, scratches and drops
Not all natural stones resist physical damage equally.
Hardness describes a material's resistance to scratching. Toughness relates to how well it resists breaking or chipping. These are different properties, so a stone that resists scratching may still break if dropped.
For example, labradorite can chip or fracture if struck. Other stones may scratch more easily or have natural fractures that require careful handling.
Avoid knocking jewellery against hard surfaces, and take it off before gardening, DIY or other activities where it might be caught or damaged.
4. Heat and direct sunlight
Excessive heat and prolonged exposure to strong sunlight can affect some gemstones, particularly certain colours and treatments.
The response depends on the particular stone, its colour, its treatment and the intensity of exposure.
For everyday care, avoid leaving your jewellery on a sunny windowsill, in a hot car, or near a direct heat source.
Store it somewhere cool, dry and away from prolonged direct sunlight.
5. Why stone treatments matter
Some natural stones are treated to improve their appearance, stability or durability.
Turquoise is a good example. Stabilised turquoise has been treated to improve its physical stability, while untreated turquoise may be more vulnerable to changes caused by oils, moisture and everyday handling.
These are not interchangeable materials when it comes to care.
If you are unsure whether a stone has been treated, ask the jeweller or maker. The safest cleaning and storage advice depends on the particular material.
6. How to store natural-stone jewellery
Store your jewellery so pieces don't rub against each other.
Harder stones can scratch softer stones, and metal chains or clasps can mark delicate surfaces.
Separate pouches or individual compartments are a simple solution.
For necklaces, fasten the clasp before storing the piece to help prevent tangling. Avoid pulling or stretching the design when untangling chains or cords.
For a broader overview of caring for mixed-material pieces day to day, read the full guide on how to care for pearl jewellery at home.
A little knowledge protects your jewellery.
Natural stones vary widely, and that variety is part of their appeal. But it also means no single cleaning method suits every gemstone.
At Pearl Art Nature, I combine genuine pearls and natural stones in handmade jewellery designs. Each material deserves care suited to its own properties.
If you're unsure about a particular stone, gentle handling and avoiding unnecessary exposure to chemicals, heat and moisture are sensible starting points.
Look after your jewellery, and you'll enjoy its individual beauty for much longer.