A conservative cleaning method

Use lukewarm water, a small amount of mild soap and a soft brush where the setting allows. Rinse carefully and dry with a lint-free cloth. Work over a covered basin so a dropped piece cannot strike a hard surface.

Carved Maya jadeite head pendant, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Why treatment history matters

GIA notes that untreated jade may tolerate ultrasonic or steam cleaning, but jade can be dyed, bleached and impregnated, coated or heated. Warm soapy water is therefore the safer general recommendation when treatment is unknown.

Olmec jadeite pendant, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Storage and wear

Store pieces separately in soft pouches or divided compartments. Avoid hard impacts, household chemicals and jeweler’s torch heat. Check prongs, bezels, clasps and stringing periodically; care includes the mounting, not only the jadeite.

Polished Olmec jadeite celt-pendant, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Open Access object image, The Metropolitan Museum of Art; public domain.

Research basis

Independently written from public information supplied by GIA, Smithsonian and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. GIA · Smithsonian · The Met