AltGems
Updated as of June 2026

How to clean and care for Turquoise

Soft and porous. Clean with a soft dry cloth only. Avoid water, oils, cosmetics, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.

Step by step

  1. Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap.
  2. Soak the piece briefly, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush. Be gentle, this stone is softer.
  3. Rinse in clean water (keep a strainer over the drain) and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
  4. Store in a soft pouch away from harder gems that could scratch it.
Keep it sparkling
Shop gentle jewelry cleaning kits
Shop now

You may also like

4.8

Lapis Lazuli

Blue · Mohs 5.5
5.4

Larimar

Blue · Mohs 5
4.4

Malachite

Green · Mohs 3.75

Frequently asked questions

How do you clean Turquoise?
Soft and porous. Clean with a soft dry cloth only. Avoid water, oils, cosmetics, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.
Can you use an ultrasonic cleaner on Turquoise?
No. Turquoise can be damaged by ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Stick to warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Does Turquoise scratch easily?
Turquoise rates 5.5 on the Mohs scale. That is on the softer side, so handle and store it carefully.