TRADITIONAL BIRTHSTONES

January - Garnet
February - Amethyst
March - Aquamarine
April - Diamond
May - Emerald
June - Pearl
 July - Ruby
August - Peridot
September - Sapphire
October - Opal
November - Topaz
December - Turquoise

JEWELRY CARE

  Gemstones
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 After wearing gems, rub with a clean, soft, slightly damp cloth.
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 Avoid saltwater and chemicals as they will erode the polished surface of the stone.
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 Hairspray and cosmetics dull the sparkle of gemstones. Avoid contact and clean immediately.

  Pearls
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Treat pearls gently as they are sensitive gems. Store them separately in a cloth bag or wrap them in tissue. Metal jewelry and harder gems can scratch pearls.
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 Do not store in airtight containers; pearls need to breathe.
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 Do not wear your pearls while bathing or showering, swimming or playing sports. This can damage the nacre.
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 Put pearls on last to avoid contact with hairspray, cosmetics or cologne. This too can damage the nacre.
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 Clean with a soft, damp cloth.
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 If you wear your pearls often, re-string them annually, or when the stringing becomes loose.
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 Contact with skin keeps pearls moisturized and improves the appearance of the luster.

  Sterling Silver
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All sterling silver, unless treated with a coating, will eventually tarnish. Exposure to air naturally oxidizes silver and it cannot be totally avoided. Keep tarnishing to a minimum by storing silver jewelry in a cloth bag or covered box.
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 Use a shine or rouge cloth frequently to avoid build-up. It’s a lot easier to clean a little oxidation than a lot of oxidation!
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To avoid scratching or other damage, store separate from other objects. (Although some scratching is inevitable and may even add to the beauty of the piece.)
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 Do not wear silver with a patina while bathing, in the shower, swimming or playing sports. It can alter or eventually remove the finish.

  Gold/Gold Filled
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Remove gold jewelry before showering or bathing; soap film can leave it dull and dingy.
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 Avoid chlorine as it can permanently discolor gold.
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Use commercial cleaners and a soft chamois cloth to keep gold looking lustrous and shiny. An old toothbrush and soapy water with a few drips of ammonia works well. Rinse with warm water and air dry.
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 Remove grease with rubbing alcohol.

  Silk
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Avoid wearing silk necklaces, especially light colors, on hot days. Perspiration and moisture will attract and hold dirt. Avoid getting bracelets wet as well.
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To clean, gently rub the silk with a soft cloth and a very mild solution of Woolite or other mild laundry detergent. Rinse with cold water and blot immediately. Allow to air dry. Block in shape to avoid kinks. (Pearls may be damaged by the continued use of detergents, so use your best judgment.)
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Store according to recommendations for specific gems. Also, avoid tangling by storing each piece separately.