The Effect of Chlorine and Salt water on Coral Gemstone

Coral Gemstone is organic in nature and the Coral gemstone jewelry needs special care as this gemstone is very soft and fragile in nature.

Although the owner of Coral gemstone takes care of their jewelry,  but there are some environmental influences that can damage this stone. This damage is sometimes not even known by the owner at the same time. If some serious damage occurs to the Coral gemstone, then it is not possible to repair the gemstone jewelry. This damaged jewelry can either be repurchased or recreated but can't be repaired. In this blog,  I will explain what are the effects of chlorine and salt water on coral gemstone. 

Coral gemstone is very susceptible to discoloration when it is exposed to chlorine and other harsh chemicals. Chlorine is one of the common chemical that is found in daily life. Chlorine present in the chlorine bleach, in the swimming pool or in the hot tub can damage the Coral gemstone Jewelry. This damage is due to stress corrosion cracking. 

There is  some stress in the joints of the jewelry which causes damage to the gemstone jewelry when exposed to chlorine. The chlorine water will dull the finish of Coral gemstone ring within minutes of exposure. Some cuts of natural Coral gemstone need special care. For instance, a Coral necklace with princess cut should not be piled in with a ring as it can disintegrate the corners of the gemstones.

Another corrosive substance that can cause damage to gemstone jewelry is Saltwater. This is because the high content of salt and harsh nature of sea water can damage the soldered joints of jewelry. Along with this salt water also cause degradation of mounting joints due to which gemstone can be lost. The facets and appearance of the gemstone can be damaged by salt water. All of the oceans and saltwater pool contains significant quantities of salt that can damage your Coral gemstone jewelry.

Coral gemstone jewelry needs specific care. Avoid cleaning them at home or exposing them to pool chemical, or seawater. In order to clean jewelry at home   use a bristle brush  and a very mild detergent. Coral gemstone should be cleaned only with a soft cloth to protect them from scratches. It is advisable to remove the gemstone jewelry before going for swimming and cleaning.