Can household chemicals damage gemstones?

Yes, household chemicals, like bleach, chlorine and ammonia, can severely damage a lot of gemstones, plus their precious metal frames. Those harsh substances strip off protective coatings, can shift tones, and start eroding the structural health of softer stones, in plain terms.

Porous gems such as pearls, opals, and turquoise are especially likely to absorb chemicals, which leads to permanent discolouration and eventual structural breakdown. Even tougher stones, like sapphires and diamonds, may take a hit too, because chemical residue can build up and dull their sparkle. With chlorine in particular, it can pit and weaken the gold or silver alloy used in the jewellery setting, and that becomes hard to reverse later.