Apatite Cleaning: Preventing Clouding & Restoration

Question
QUESTION: I always prided myself in knowing a lot (or so I thought) about gemstones/jewelry, but unfortunately I didn't know enough about Apatite to prevent this problem. I used an over-the-counter jewelry cleaner to clean a sterling pendant containing 40 or so Apatite stones and when I pulled it out of the solution, the stones were cloudy. I asked my local jeweler and they said to try cleaning it with rubbing alcohol and if that didn't work it was ruined (I did try the rubbing alcohol and nothing happened). So my question is, can I get the luster back in these stones or are they ruined as my local jeweler said they were? And if they are, should I throw them away and sell the silver? Thanks in advance.

ANSWER: Hi Jennifer,

To bad about the stones. Are they very small? Because all gem materials can be repolished but small sizes cost to much usually. You can buy new ones cheaper. I find it unusual for apatite to be damaged by a jewelry cleaner. Did you use an ultrasonic cleaner? You might take one out and take it to another jeweler and have him look at it, it may be a fake. I know apatite and have never seen it get cloudy without heat, high heat. I may be wrong but it may not be apatitr.

Peter

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The stones are approx 10-15 pts each and I purchased the pendant from QVC and have always trusted them (unless you know something I don't). I did not use an ultrasonic cleaner since I've heard they can cause stones to become loose. I used the Connoisseur Jewelry Cleaner that you find in stores and have never had a problem before. I rinsed in cool water. Do you suggest cleaning it with anything else? The only reason I was cleaning it in the first place was to get the body oils off of it before I put it away; the stones were not dirty in anyway. I thank you for your quick response to my original question.

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

I've done work for QVC in the past and found them to be reasonably good. The stones should not have turned cloudy from the cleaner they will usually replace the piece if somthing like that happens. I would have the stones tested and find out why they clouded. Then you would have a really good case to get reimbursed or replaced. You should be able to clean them in room temp water with a tooth brush and mild baby soap with no problem. Body oils do not harm stones or metals unless it is excessive. Good Luck.

Peter