Can Turquoise Get Wet? Your Ultimate Guide To Protecting Your Beloved Gemstone
Turquoise, with its captivating blue and green hues, is a beloved gemstone often seen in jewelry and decorative items. Its unique appearance and rich historical significance make it a popular choice for rings, necklaces, earrings, and more. However, like many precious stones, turquoise requires specific care to maintain its integrity and beauty. A common question that arises for turquoise owners is: "Can turquoise get wet?" The short answer is nuanced, and understanding the properties of this beautiful gem is key to preserving it for years to come.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the relationship between turquoise and water, delving into the risks involved, safe cleaning practices, and essential care tips to keep your turquoise safe and stunning.
Understanding Turquoise: A Porous Gemstone
To truly understand how turquoise reacts to water, we must first appreciate its fundamental characteristic: its porosity. Turquoise is porous, meaning it can absorb water and other substances. This property makes it susceptible to damage when exposed to moisture. Water can seep into the stone, leading to various issues.
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As a very porous and absorptive precious stone, when a turquoise stone is exposed to water, oils, and other chemicals, it soaks them up like a sponge. This absorption isn't uniform, however. Turquoise does have a certain level of porosity, meaning it can absorb water to some extent. The degree to which it can get wet depends on several factors, including the specific type of turquoise, its quality, and whether it has been treated. Some turquoise is treated to improve its surface appearance, which might affect its porosity, but the general rule of thumb remains: turquoise and water are not always the best of friends.
The Risks of Turquoise Getting Wet
While a brief splash might not immediately ruin your turquoise, prolonged or repeated exposure to water can lead to significant and irreversible damage. The primary concerns when turquoise gets wet involve structural integrity and changes in appearance.
Structural Damage: Cracking and Weakening
The most significant concern when turquoise gets wet is the potential for cracking or damage. As the gem absorbs water, it can expand. When it dries, it contracts. This repeated expansion and contraction can put immense stress on the stone's internal structure, potentially leading to hairline cracks or even more severe fracturing over time. This is particularly true for untreated or natural turquoise, which tends to be more porous.
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Furthermore, in general, when turquoise gets wet, it can become softer and more prone to damage. This is because the water can weaken the bonds between the copper, aluminum, and phosphate minerals that make up the stone. A weakened structure makes the gem more susceptible to chips, scratches, and breakage from everyday wear.
Discoloration and Appearance Changes
Beyond structural issues, water can also alter the aesthetic appeal of your turquoise. Turquoise should not be allowed to get wet, as exposure is likely to cause it to mark or lose color. The absorbed moisture, especially if it contains impurities, can lead to discoloration, turning the vibrant blue or green hues dull, muddy, or even brownish over time.
Remember that turquoise is absorptive not just to water, but also to oils and other chemicals. When a turquoise stone is exposed to water, it can absorb these substances from its environment, leading to permanent changes in its color and luster. This is why it's also crucial to be mindful of exposure to other chemicals, cosmetics, and even natural skin oils, as these can also be absorbed and cause discoloration.
When Is Brief Contact Okay? (And When Is It Not?)
So, does this mean you can never wear your turquoise jewelry? Not necessarily. In general, brief contact with water is okay for turquoise jewelry. For instance, a quick splash while washing hands might not cause immediate harm, especially if the stone is quickly dried. However, prolonged exposure to water can damage the stone. This distinction is crucial.
Can Turquoise Rings Get Wet? The short answer to this question is: it depends. While some turquoise rings can tolerate brief exposure to water without significant harm, others, particularly those made with softer or untreated turquoise, are much more vulnerable. The type and quality of turquoise, as well as any stabilization treatments it might have undergone, play a role in its resilience.
To err on the side of caution and preserve your stone's integrity and beauty, it's best to avoid activities that involve prolonged exposure to water. This includes:
- Swimming (in pools, oceans, or lakes)
- Showering or bathing
- Washing dishes
- Submerging turquoise in water for extended periods
Prolonged exposure to water, especially submerging turquoise in water, should be avoided to preserve its integrity and beauty.
Safe Cleaning Practices for Turquoise
Given its sensitivity, proper cleaning is essential for maintaining the beauty of your turquoise. While water is a concern, it can be used judiciously for cleaning.
The Do's of Cleaning Turquoise
- Use Warm, Soapy Water (with caution): It’s safe to clean turquoise jewelry with warm, soapy water, but only if done correctly and sparingly. The best way of cleaning your turquoise is to use soapy water or warm water. Use a very mild, non-detergent soap.
- Gentle Application: You can use a wet soft cotton cloth. You can also put some soap on a piece of fabric and dab it gently on the stone. This allows for controlled application, preventing the stone from soaking up too much moisture.
- Immediate Drying: If turquoise gets wet, dry it immediately using a soft towel. Do not let it air dry, as this prolongs moisture contact.
The Don'ts of Cleaning Turquoise
- Avoid Submerging: Do not submerge turquoise in water. This is the quickest way to allow the stone to absorb too much moisture, leading to potential damage.
- No Steam or Ultrasonic Cleaners: It should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners. These methods use high heat and intense vibrations that can cause significant damage, including cracking and discoloration. High heat can cause discoloration and even surface damage to turquoise.
- Avoid Direct Soap Pouring: Avoid pouring soap directly on the stone. Always dilute soap in water and apply it with a cloth.
- Beware of Harsh Cleaners: Contrary to popular opinion, using even mild soap or other cleaning agents can damage the stone if not used properly or if they are too harsh. Stick to very mild, pH-neutral soaps. Turquoise will dissolve slowly in hydrochloric acid, and it can be discolored when exposed to other chemicals, cosmetics, and even perfumes.
- No Sunlight for Drying: Turquoise should not be placed in sunlight for drying or storage. Exposure to sunlight is likely to cause it to mark, lose color, or even crack.
General Care Tips for Your Turquoise Jewelry
Beyond cleaning, general care is vital for the longevity of your turquoise. Though it may seem like most rocks are indestructible, after years of wear they can get damaged, eroded, or even break. Here are some tips on proper care of your turquoise, or any precious gemstone:
- Avoid Prolonged Water Exposure: As emphasized, always remove your turquoise jewelry before showering, swimming, washing dishes, or engaging in any activity that involves extended contact with water.
- Protect from Chemicals and Cosmetics: Apply lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and other cosmetics before putting on your turquoise jewelry. These substances can be absorbed by the porous stone, leading to discoloration and damage.
- Store Properly: Store your turquoise jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box is ideal. Keep it away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat: High heat can cause discoloration and even surface damage. Keep your turquoise away from direct sunlight, heating vents, and hot cars.
- Gentle Handling: Turquoise is a relatively soft stone compared to diamonds or sapphires. Handle it with care to avoid accidental knocks or drops that could cause chipping or cracking.
Keep your turquoise safe! Proper cleaning and diligent care are essential for maintaining the captivating beauty and integrity of this unique gemstone.
Final Summary
In summary, while turquoise is a stunning and beloved gemstone, its porous nature makes it sensitive to water. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to serious damage, including cracking, softening, and discoloration, by weakening its internal structure and allowing absorption of impurities. Brief, careful contact with water for cleaning purposes is acceptable, but always use very mild soap, apply gently with a soft cloth, and dry immediately. Avoid submerging turquoise, using steam or ultrasonic cleaners, and exposing it to harsh chemicals or direct sunlight. By understanding these risks and implementing proper care routines, you can ensure your turquoise jewelry retains its vibrant color and structural integrity, allowing you to enjoy its beauty for many years to come.
What Is Stabilized Turquoise? | Ultimate Jewelry Guide
What Is Stabilized Turquoise? | Ultimate Jewelry Guide
What Is Stabilized Turquoise? | Ultimate Jewelry Guide
