What products can damage a Colombian emerald?
Colombian emeralds are known for their incredible beauty, green color, and unique origin. These precious gems, in addition to being symbols of luxury, also require special care to maintain their shine and avoid damage that could affect their appearance or value.
Although they are precious stones, Colombian emeralds are sensitive to certain products and conditions that can wear them down or even permanently damage them. In this article, we explain how to care for your emerald and what products you should avoid to preserve its beauty.
How Colombian emeralds are formed
Colombian emeralds form under very specific geological conditions, where pressure and temperature play a crucial role. These gems are created from the interaction of minerals such as beryl and chromium, which give them their distinctive green color. However, despite their hardness, emeralds have natural inclusions, known as "Gardens," that can make them more susceptible to damage if not handled properly. Due to their composition, they can be easily altered by chemicals and extreme conditions, which can deteriorate their structure.
Reasons why a Colombian emerald may be damaged or worn down
The wear of a Colombian emerald can occur due to several factors, including the products it comes into contact with, extreme temperatures, or improper handling of the gem. Emeralds have considerable hardness, but their inclusions make them more vulnerable to aggressive chemicals, which can make them more prone to losing their shine or even fracturing. It is essential to keep them away from products that can alter their structure.
Products that can damage a Colombian emerald
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Soaps: Common soaps and detergents contain chemicals that can alter the emerald’s natural shine. Even if the soap seems mild, the residue left on the gem can generate stains and dull its green color.
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Alcohol and antibacterial products: Alcohol and antibacterial products are substances that can damage the surface of an emerald. These products are aggressive and can strip the gem of its shine and original color.
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Sweat: Sweat can be corrosive due to its salt and acid content. When sweat comes into contact with a Colombian emerald, it can damage the surface and cause it to lose its shine over time.
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Saltwater: Saltwater can affect the surface of the emerald, especially if exposed frequently. The salt can leave residue that deteriorates the stone.
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Hot spring water: Water from hot springs contains minerals and elements that can alter the color and texture of an emerald. Repeated exposure to this type of water can be harmful.
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Perfumes and body creams: Perfumes, lotions, and creams contain chemicals that can have a negative impact on emeralds. Contact with these substances can wear down the surface and strip the gem of its natural shine.
Tips for preserving your Colombian emerald
To preserve the shine and beauty of your Colombian emerald, it’s essential to follow some basic care tips:
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Avoid contact with chemicals: Keep your emerald away from products such as perfumes, creams, cleaning products, or alcohol.
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Store your emerald properly: When not in use, store your emerald in a soft case to avoid scratching or damaging it from contact with other jewelry.
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Proper cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean your emerald. Avoid using hard brushes or abrasive detergents.
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Avoid exposure to corrosive substances: Do not expose your emerald to saltwater, hot spring water, or excessive sweat to protect its surface.
Emerald By Love: We help restore the shine of your emerald
If your Colombian emerald has lost its shine or shows signs of damage, Emerald By Love is here to help. We offer specialized services to restore your gem's original brilliance. If your emerald needs to be replaced, we can also help you find a new high-quality gem, ensuring you always maintain luxury and elegance in your hands. Feel free to contact us for the attention and care your emerald deserves.
Paula A. Bonilla
Social communicator and journalist from Universidad Sergio Arboleda in Colombia. She is also a jeweler passionate about constantly learning about precious gems and high-end national jewelry.
Currently, she works for one of the most important jewelry stores in Bogotá, Emerald by Love. This jewelry store has over 40 years of experience and has two physical locations in the heart of Colombia’s capital.
