Before Ultrasonic Cleaning a Gemstone Ring: Six Safety Checks

Ultrasonic cleaners can damage some gemstones and treated settings. The opal ring is an example of an item to keep OUT of an ultrasonic cleaner. Identify your ring before buying or using the machine.

4 min read2026-10-24

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What you need

Gemstone, metal and treatment details
Receipt or grading report if available
Soft clean cloth
Qualified jeweler contact if needed

How to

1. Look for opals, pearls, amber, glued decorations, and small stones in the ring setting.
2. Check any purchase record or gem report for gemstone names and oil, resin, dye or coating treatments.
3. If the stone is unidentified or the setting is loose, do not use an ultrasonic machine; ask a qualified jeweler.
4. Exclude materials GIA warns about, such as opal, pearl, amber and certain treated gems, from ultrasonic cleaning.
5. Follow material-specific manufacturer instructions for gentle wiping with a clean soft cloth. GIA recommends warm soapy water for opal, with care for any composite or fragile setting.
6. After gentle cleaning, check the stone and prongs for movement. Have a jeweler inspect any looseness, cracking or color change.

One more tip

Avoid ultrasonic cleaning on opal, pearl, amber, some coated or filled gems, and loose settings. Ask a qualified jeweler if the material or treatment is unknown.

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How to

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