The Sparkle Secret! Everything You Need to Know About Ultrasonic Cleaners.
So, you bought a ring and you’re obsessed with that fresh-out-of-the-box-sparkle and don’t know how to maintain it. Enough said. Enter, Ultrasonic.
Ultra-what? What is this thing you speak of?
Ultrasonic jewellery cleaners are modern marvels in the world of jewelry maintenance. Utilizing high-frequency sound waves, they create microscopic bubbles in a liquid solution, which implode and gently remove dirt, grime, and oils from jewelry. Professional jewellers rely on these devices for their precision and thoroughness, ensuring that delicate and intricate pieces are cleaned without aggressive tactics.
The Magic Behind the Clean: How Do They Work?
These cleaners work by generating ultrasonic vibrations in water or a suitable cleaning solution. These vibrations create tiny bubbles in a process known as cavitation. The bubble implosions create a gentle cleaning action on the surface of the jewelry, effectively dislodging dirt and debris from hard-to-reach places without damaging the item.
Why Professionals Love Them: Utility and Effectiveness
For professional jewelers, ultrasonic cleaners are indispensable. While our machines are much larger and powerful than the at-home versions, we have a greater need for all that power! Jewellers can clean dozens, if not hundreds of rings a day, covered in thick polishing compounds and grease, so they are an effective time saver. These devices are particularly effective in cleaning complex designs with hard to reach places, where manual cleaning might miss or damage the jewelry. It’s a dirty job, dirtier than you may think, and these bad boys do the trick!
DIY Jewelry Care: Using Ultrasonic Cleaners at Home
Our jewellery lovers can also benefit from these cleaners at home. They're ideal for maintaining the sparkle of your jewelry without frequent professional cleaning. Fill the tank with water, add a bit of gentle cleaning solution, place your jewelry in the basket, and let the machine do the work!
They are particularly useful for those who have gemstones that have a hard time disguising dirt. Certain gemstones like Diamonds, Zircon and Moissanite have a high refraction index- meaning tons of brilliance- which is great at hiding trapped dirt, cream and skin cells. However, gemstones with lower brilliance show a lot more. If you have a “windowed” or portrait style gemstone, these machines are great at giving your stone a quick clean and getting that sparkle back with minimal effort!
How Not to Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner
It’s essential not to overuse or misuse these devices. Please make sure you understand which jewellery you can and cannot put in the cleaner before use. Don't leave jewelry in for too long, and avoid using them on delicate items that might be dislodged or damaged by the vibrations. Never submerge your fingers into the machine while it is operating as the vibrations can cause problems in your joints. Never operate any equipment without first reading the manufacturers user manual. You don’t want a tragic oopsy!
Forbidden Gems: What Not to Clean
Certain gemstones like opals, pearls, emeralds, and tanzanite should not be cleaned in ultrasonic cleaners. These gems are either too soft or have inclusions that might worsen under the cleaner's vibrations. If you’re unsure, reach out to us about your gemstones! Better safe than sorry <3
The Risks: Understanding the Limitations
While ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, there's a risk of loosening gemstones if the item has not been properly maintained or if it's particularly fragile. Always inspect your jewelry for loose stones before cleaning. However, sometimes it is only possible to check for loose stones after the jewellery has been cleaned. Be sure to check your item after removing it from the ultrasonic and ensure there are no loose stones in the reservoir before dumping out the water. We recommend using a fine mesh sieve while removing the water to catch any stones that may have fallen out.
Cautionary Tips for Optimal Use
- Always check for loose stones or damaged settings before and after cleaning.
- Use only recommended cleaning solutions.
- Don't overcrowd the cleaner as it may lead to scratches.
Balancing Care with Caution
Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners are a fantastic tool for keeping your treasures sparkling. Whether you're a professional jeweler or a home enthusiast, respecting the machine's capabilities and limitations will ensure your jewelry remains beautiful and undamaged. You can purchase our favourite, user-friendly, Ultrasonic cleaner here.
Remember, while technology can provide exceptional results, it's the care and attention we give to our precious items that preserve their beauty and value for years to come!
