Sapphires & RubiesUpdated 22 days ago

Sapphires and rubies are both made of the mineral corundum, which is the hardest known natural substance after diamond, making them great gemstones for everyday wear. They are ranked 9 on the Mohs scale and have good stability, meaning they are resistant to heat, light and household chemicals.

However Rubies and sapphires can chip or crack if they receive a blunt impact, so try to avoid wearing them if you’re doing any work that is going to be hard on your hands.

Like any gemstones, sapphires and rubies are prone to an accumulation of dust and matter on their surface, which may over time cause them to look faded or cloudy. To combat this, keep your rubies and sapphires as clean as possible and avoid applying lotions, perfumes and sprays after putting on your jewellery. 

To eliminate dullness, clean rubies and sapphires at home by applying a mixture of mild liquid soap and warm water. Gently brush your rubies and the jewellery mounting using a soft toothbrush. Rinse immediately with clean warm water and dry with a lint-free cloth for sparkling results. Avoid using harsh detergents, and never clean your jewellery with solvents such as alcohol, acetone or paint thinner.

You can also use ultrasonic and steam cleaners, which are usually safe for both stones.