How to Clean a Lab Grown Ruby Without Ruining the Color
Lab-grown rubies have surged in popularity, and for good reason. They offer the same fiery red brilliance as mined rubies, but at a more accessible price and without the environmental baggage. Still, even the most durable gemstone can lose its luster without proper care. So, how do you clean a lab-grown ruby without dulling its color or damaging the setting?
What Makes Rubies So Resilient?
Rubies, both natural and lab-created, rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them one of the toughest gemstones out there. But “hard” doesn’t mean immune to damage. Oils, lotions, and dirt can build up on the surface and mute the vibrant red hue. Worse, some harsh cleaning methods can even erode settings or affect treated stones.
Most lab-grown rubies, especially those created through flame fusion or flux growth, are untreated, meaning they don’t rely on fracture filling or dyeing, but gentle care is still key.
How to Clean a Lab Created Ruby Safely
1、Soak in Warm Soapy Water
Mix a small amount of mild dish soap (avoid anything too strong or citrus-based) into a bowl of lukewarm water. Let your ruby jewelry soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
2、Use a Soft Brush
Gently scrub the stone with a soft-bristled toothbrush, focusing on the back of the stone where grime tends to collect. Be careful around prongs or delicate settings.
3、Rinse and Dry
Rinse thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. Then, pat dry with a microfiber or lint-free cloth. Avoid paper towels, which can scratch metal and leave residue.
4、Skip Ultrasonic Cleaners
While rubies are generally safe in ultrasonic machines, if your piece has a vintage setting or delicate mount, it’s better to play it safe with hand cleaning.
Why Lab-Grown Gems Are on the Rise
Beyond aesthetics, today’s buyers are thinking about how their jewelry is made. Lab-grown rubies are identical to mined ones in composition, but they come without the social and environmental toll of mining. According to a 2023 report by the International Gem Society (IGS), over 60% of Gen Z and millennial buyers say they would prefer a lab-created gemstone over a mined one, not just for the price, but because it aligns with their values.
More Than Just a Gem. It’s a Statement
Wearing a lab-grown ruby isn’t just about sparkle. It’s about embracing technology, transparency, and ethics. Plus, modern advances allow lab-created rubies to include the same types of natural-looking inclusions as mined ones. Gone are the overly perfect, glassy stones of the past.
In short, today’s synthetic rubies are more refined, more real, and more respected than ever.
