Sometimes with the traditional sense of cleaning methods is no way to remove the accumulation of dirt particles. Need to consider using an ultrasonic cleaning machine, using ultrasound to remove stains on jewelry. However, the ultrasonic cleaner comes with a warning because not all gems and jewelry can be cleaned safely in it.

How does the ultrasonic cleaning machine work?

Ultrasonic cleaning process is a scientific innovation, put into use around 1970. It is already used in industry to clean small, complex parts and to speed up surface treatment. Nowadays, ultrasonic cleaning machines are used to clean all kinds of objects, such as jewelry, watches, coins, pens, optical lenses, scientific samples, medical equipment, phonograph records, musical instruments, blinds, electronic equipment and industrial machinery parts.

The cleaning process uses high-frequency sound waves (typically 40 khz) to collect the liquid solution and cause the cavitation of the solution molecules. According to the liquid transfer of cavitation bubbles is conducive to cleaning the surface of the objects immersed in dust, dirt, oil, vegetable oils, wax, pigments, fingerprints, etc. . A liquid solution can immerse in water, but an organic solvent suitable for immersing an object always improves the effect.

Not only that, the cleaning process must not let the items in the bottom of the equipment. This will avoid cavitation in parts of the object that are not in contact with the liquid solution.

The ultrasonic cleaning process lasts from 3 to 6 minutes, but may be longer depending on what has to be cleaned. It should also be noted that the ultrasonic cleaning itself can not clean and disinfect objects at all. This is why, in medical use, cleaning is generally followed by sterilization.

What gems can an ultrasonic cleaner clean?

The ultrasonic cleaner is compatible with some non-organic gemstones and precious metals. However, some gemstones and jewelry should not be cleaned in ultrasonic equipment.

Diamonds

Diamonds are the hardest and most durable gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of 10, which means they can easily withstand ultrasound. However, the use of ultrasound equipment to clean diamonds may sometimes have some risks. The same is true for diamonds with more inclusions, since ultrasonic vibration can affect internal imperfections and cause diamonds to crack. If this is the case, it is best to choose professional cleaning.

The purity improvement is accomplished by laser drilling and gap filling, which means that the crystal structure of the stone needs to be damaged in the process of improvement. This also makes reinforced diamonds more likely to crack when cleaned with ultrasonic equipment.

Also, do not use ultrasound to clean colored diamonds. If the diamond has been treated to enhance its color, according to the type of treatment, ultrasonic vibration can eliminate the effect, so that the color of the diamond is not so bright.

Non-organic gemstones

In general, the less time a gem is used, the more likely it is to be destroyed in an ultrasonic cleaner.

Do not clean gems filled or coated with oil, resin or wax in ultrasonic equipment. This type of treatment is not permanent and may be damaged or removed during cleaning. Coatings and fillers are used on emeralds, lapis lazuli, malachite and opal.

If gemstones are heat-treated to enhance their colour, use an ultrasonic cleaner as far as possible. Although ultrasonic cleaning of clear rubies and sapphires is largely safe, starlight rubies and starlight sapphires should not be cleaned in machines.

Gemstones that are sensitive to changes in heat and heat should not be ultrasonic cleaned. Some of the gems include tanzanite, Topaz, moonstone, malachite, lapis lazuli, blood stone, turquoise, zircon and so on.

As You Can See, many non-organic gemstones are not suitable for ultrasonic cleaning. In turn, you can use a mild cleaning solution or warm soapy water to clean again.

Organic Gems

Organic gems such as pearls, mother-of-pearl, coral, amber, ivory and jet are very soft and porous. Do not put them in the ultrasonic cleaner, because organic gems are very easy to be dissolved by heat and vibration. The best way to wash them is with warm soapy water.

Which metals can be used in ultrasonic cleaning machine?

Ultrasonic cleaning machine is famous for dealing with precious metals. You can use ultrasonic equipment to safely clean white, yellow and rose gold. Silver and platinum jewelry can also be cleaned in ultrasonic equipment. Tungsten is an exception because it is very vulnerable to the effects of ultrasound.

The use of ultrasonic cleaning machines on oxidized or antique metals is not recommended. In such cases, you can use a mild detergent or warm soapy water.