Steam cleaning uses high-pressure steam to remove dirt, oils, and residue from jewelry, providing a deep clean that restores sparkle and brilliance.
Professional jewelers use steam cleaners as a final step after ultrasonic cleaning, or as the primary cleaning method for delicate jewelry that can't withstand ultrasonic vibration. The high-temperature steam (typically 200-300°F) dissolves oils and grime while the pressure dislodges particles from settings and crevices.
Steam cleaning is safe for diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and most hard gemstones set in precious metals. However, avoid steam cleaning pearls, opals, emeralds, or any organic gemstones. Heat-sensitive stones and those with fracture-filling treatments should also not be steam cleaned.