Coral, Lapis, Turquoise,
Howlite and Malachite




These stones are all porous and can be stained by household acids and chemicals, even coffee. They should never be put in an ultrasonic cleaner, commercial jewelry cleaner (other than pearl cleaning solutions) or silver cleaning solution. They can be cleaned with warm water and dried with a clean, soft cotton cloth.
They have a hardness of 5 - 6 on Mohs' Scale,
and therefore care must be taken during wear. Care must also be taken even
when cutting these stones to avoid staining by the cutting oils. Some stones
are soaked in water for a week or or two prior to cutting and polishing.**
Scratches and small abrasions can be removed by standard lapidary procedures,
which will allow for maximum luster and enjoyment.
**hints from the Rock Rattler.