How do you care for and clean Ammolite jewelry?

by jake vanderwall

The golden rule for Ammolite jewelry is: It should be the last thing you put on in the morning and the first thing you take off at night.

1. Avoid the "Chemistry Lab"

Ammolite is extremely sensitive to chemicals. Hairspray, perfume, lotion, and even heavy sweating can dull the surface or damage the organic layers over time. Always apply your products and let them dry completely before putting on your jewelry.

2. Cleaning: Keep it Simple

You don’t need fancy jewelry cleaners. In fact, most of them will ruin the stone.

  • The Best Method: Use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth (like the ones for eyeglasses) to gently wipe away fingerprints or oils.

  • If it’s actually dirty: Use lukewarm water and a tiny drop of mild, additive-free dish soap. Use your fingers to wash it never a toothbrush.

  • Dry it immediately: Don’t let it "air dry" or soak in water. Use a soft cloth to pat it dry right away.

3. The "Never" List

  • NEVER use an Ultrasonic Cleaner: These machines use high-frequency vibrations that can literally shatter the delicate layers of an Ammolite stone or cause a "triplet" (a layered gem) to come apart.

  • NEVER use Steam Cleaners: High heat is the enemy. It can cause the stone to crack or discolor.

  • NEVER use Harsh Abrasives: No toothpaste, no baking soda, and no jewelry polishing dips.

4. Smart Storage

Ammolite is about a 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs hardness scale. That means a stray diamond ring or even a rogue silver chain in your jewelry box can scratch it.

  • Store your Ammolite in its own soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box.

  • Keep it out of direct, constant sunlight (like a windowsill), as extreme heat can eventually cause the organic material to dry out or "craze" (develop tiny surface cracks)

5. Check Your Settings

If your Ammolite is a "Natural" stone (not a capped triplet), it’s more exposed to the elements. Once a year, take a look at the prongs or the bezel setting to make sure the stone is still secure. Since the stone is soft, you want to make sure it isn't wiggling around, which could cause the edges to chip.

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