Gemstone Care and Cleaning
Transparent crystalline gemstones
Simply soak them in water with a touch of gentle soap. If necessary, use a soft toothbrush to scrub behind the stone. 
Ultrasonic Cleaner
Diamonds, rubies and sapphires will be fine but many other gems may not be: when in doubt, leave it out.
Ammonia
Diamonds, rubies and sapphires can be cleaned with a touch of ammonia and water to add extra sprakle.
Opaque gemstones
Like lapis lazuli, turquoise, malachite, require special care. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner and never use ammonia or any chemical solution. These gem materials should just be wiped clean gently with a moist cloth. These gemstones can be porous and may absorb chemicals, even soap, and they may build up inside the stone and discolor it.
Opals
Opals require special care. Ultrasonic cleaner and ammonia should never be used. Try to avoid heat and strong light which can dry out the water in opals.
Organic Gems
Due to their organic nature, these gems are both soft and porous. Pearls, coral, and amber should only be wiped clean with a moist cloth. Be careful about chemicals in hairspray, cosmetics, or perfume as they can over time, damage pearls in particular.