About colored gemstones
Every gemstone is a natural creation, formed over time by unique geological forces. No two stones are alike. Their colour, structure, and character give your jewel its individuality and determine how it should be worn and cared for. In gemmology, hardness refers to a gemstone’s resistance to scratching and is measured on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (very soft) to 10 (diamond).
This hardness influences how well a gemstone retains its surface polish over time, but it does not indicate resistance to impact. Even the hardest gemstones can chip or cleave if struck at the wrong angle. Alongside hardness, properties such as toughness, cleavage, and stability define how a gemstone reacts to pressure, heat, light, and chemicals. Because each stone combines these characteristics differently, care is guided by the gemstone itself rather than by appearance alone.
With thoughtful handling, your Orphée jewel will preserve its beauty, integrity, and refinement for years to come.
Jewellery care
To ensure your jewellery continues to shine beautifully, Orphée offers a yearly professional cleaning, along with a careful check of the prongs to ensure each setting remains secure and perfectly aligned. To preserve the beauty and longevity of your jewellery, we recommend removing it during the following activities.
Spa, sauna, and steam rooms
Heat, steam, and sudden cooling may affect both gemstones and settings.
Showering & bathing
Soap residue and temperature changes can dull gemstones over time.
Gardening or manual work
Soil, dust, and repeated contact with hard materials may cause abrasion or chipping. Gemstones and gold are solid materials, yet they should always be worn with care.
Swimming in pools or the sea
Chlorine and salt water can damage both gemstones and precious metals.
As a general rule, jewellery should be the last item you put on and the first you remove. This helps limit exposure to perfume, hairspray, cosmetics, and creams. When not worn, store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box to prevent scratching or impact.
Family
Quartz
Hardness
7 on the Mohs hardness scale
Key characteristics
Sensitive to heat and prolonged exposure to strong light, which may affect colour over time.
Meaning
Associated with calm, balance, and clarity of mind. Amethyst is valued for its soothing and refl ective energy.
Cleaning
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use gentle brushing only when necessary.
Avoid
Prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, which may cause colour fading.
Heat and sudden temperature changes, such as spa, sauna, or steam rooms.
Ultrasonic and steam cleaning methods.
Colour and variety considerations
Deep purple stones may fade with excessive light exposure.
Lighter shades may show surface wear more easily.
Wearing advice
Suitable for occasional to regular wear. Best removed before outdoor activities or prolonged sun exposure.
