Gemstones in all the colours of the rainbow

Gemstones are formed under high pressure and high temperatures deep below the earth’s surface. Particularly important are characteristics such as colour, lustre, luminescence, the proverbial fire as well as light refraction, transparency and fluorescence. Cutting and polishing are common techniques used to optimize the light reflections and shine of a precious mineral so that it can reveal its full beauty.

Coloured stones are gemstones that are used in jewellery. Apart from diamonds, this also includes colourless stones. Those that display a deep colour are given this by small amounts of colouring trace elements in the crystal lattice. Rubies, emeralds, and sapphires are considered the ›big three‹ coloured gemstones.

As the wearer, we can also contribute to the shine of the coloured gemstones ourselves:

• Most stones are best cleaned with a children’s toothbrush under lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid
• Every now and then, jewellery should be placed in a cleaning bath of lukewarm water and a little washing-up liquid or liquid soap for a few minutes. Then clean with a soft brush, rinse with lukewarm water and leave to air-dry
• Organic natural products such as pearls or amber should only be wiped with a damp cloth
• Stubborn dirt can be gently removed with a wooden toothpick
• Jewellery is naturally worn on the skin, which leaves traces of lotions or seawater, especially on vacation. These residues should be wiped off with a lint-free cloth
• As polished precious metals scratch more easily than you might think, we should not store our treasures in a wild jumble. Use a box with lots of soft compartments or small resealable bags
• Protect your jewellery from cosmetics and hairspray in general!
• Check the setting of the stones regularly and have loose prongs repaired if necessary
• It is better not to wear jewellery in the following situations: while doing housework or gardening, in the swimming pool, in the sauna, while sleeping, showering or exercising
• Many gemstones are ›light-shy‹, they can fade!