Birthstone rings hold meaning and beauty, but they need the right care to stay looking their best. Whether you wear yours every day or only on special occasions, looking after it properly will help it last. Here’s how to keep your birthstone ring in good shape through every season.
How to Clean Birthstone Rings
Cleaning depends on the type of stone. Softer gems like opal, pearl, and turquoise need a gentle approach. Use lukewarm water, a small bowl, mild soap (not detergent), and a soft brush. Dip the ring briefly, brush lightly, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
For harder stones like sapphire, ruby, or diamond, you can use the same method but with slightly firmer brushing. Avoid soaking porous or fragile stones. Keep clear of harsh chemicals, boiling water, or ultrasonic cleaners unless you’re certain your stone can take it.
Storage Tips for Birthstone Jewellery
Keep your ring separate from other jewellery to prevent scratches. Use a soft pouch or a box with individual compartments. Stones with lower hardness—like garnet or peridot—can get scratched by tougher gems if they rub together.
Avoid storing birthstone rings near heat or direct sunlight. Some stones fade over time when exposed to strong light. Humidity can also damage certain gems, so dry storage works best.
Professional Maintenance Guide
Take your ring to a jeweller once or twice a year. They can check for loose settings, polish the band, and clean the stone safely. Even if it looks fine, small cracks or loose prongs can go unnoticed until it’s too late. A jeweller can spot these problems early.
Ask them which methods are safe for your specific stone. They’ll know which treatments to skip.
Gemstone Hardness and Durability
Not all gems are equally tough. The Mohs scale rates stones from 1 (very soft) to 10 (very hard). Diamonds sit at 10. Rubies and sapphires are close behind. On the softer side, opals and pearls rank much lower.
This matters because it affects how and when you wear your ring. Harder stones can handle more daily wear. Softer ones should be saved for low-risk moments. Don’t wear fragile gems during exercise, cleaning, or gardening.
Seasonal Care Tips
Weather affects jewellery more than most people realise. In summer, sunscreen, sweat, and swimming pool chemicals can dull or damage stones. Take your ring off before applying lotion or jumping in the pool.
In winter, sudden temperature changes can cause damage, especially in stones like opal. Cold fingers also raise the risk of rings slipping off unnoticed, so check the fit regularly.
Spring and autumn tend to be easier on jewellery, but don’t let your guard down. Daily wear and tear can still build up, and seasonal allergies can mean more hand washing, which wears down settings over time.
Birthstone rings can last for generations if looked after with care. A bit of attention each week, proper storage, and expert checks now and then can keep your ring looking just as striking as the day you got it.
Why Brenna Lou?
At Brenna Lou, we create more than jewellery—we honour stories, motherhood, and the moments that matter most.
Our birthstone pieces and custom rings are made with care, using ethically sourced gems and locally crafted settings. Every detail is shaped with purpose, quality, and a personal touch.
Whether you’re marking a milestone or celebrating someone close to your heart, jewellery from Brenna Lou is more than a present—it’s a reminder of life’s most meaningful chapters.
