1. Fill 2 parts water and microwave on high for about one minute (almost to a boil)in a small Tupperware dish, or small cereal bowl
2. Add 2 parts ammonia, or household glass cleaner to the heated water.
3. Gently place the birthstone ring in cleaning solution for approximately 1.5 minutes, or until water has cooled to the touch. Do not put pearls in the cleaning solution.
4. Remove the ring from the solution by grabbing the ring by the metal, and avoid touching the birthstones. For added cleaning, use a toothbrush to gently wipe away lotion, hair gel, or hair spray buildup on the lower side of the ring and birthstones.
5. Place the ring on a dry paper towel and let it sit for at least five minutes. Gemstones are fairly hard and they will air dry just beautifully. The ammonia – or glass cleaner helps this process and yields a beautiful, “brand-new” look for your mother’s or birthstone ring.

Tips

• Make a Gemstone Cleaner Home Remedy with dish soap. Search the Internet for “Gemstone Cleaner Home Remedy”
• Never touch gemstones with your fingers. Gemstones have a natural affinity for grease and oil, primarily due to their hardness and the fact that the intricate settings simply get “clogged” with grease, body oil, and lotion.
• Although this cleaning process is very simple, it is best to consult with professionals on the subject of ongoing inspection of your mother’s ring and other birthstone jewelry.
• Clean as often as needed. Most rings look best with a weekly cleaning.
• For a more intensive cleaning, take the ring to a reputable jeweler for a thorough cleaning.

Turquoise is believed to come from the French word meaning Turkey as it was erroneously believed that the precious stones originated in that country as they were sold in the bazaars to Venetian merchants. In reality they most likely came from Persia (now Iran) or the Sinai Peninsula. It may also have arisen from the French word pierre turquin which means blue stone. It’s often found in deposits of copper typically in very dry, arid conditions.

Before turquoise was discovered in the US the highest quality gems, with an intense blue color, were from Persia and ‘Persian Turquoise’ is still used these days to designate the top quality gemstones. In the last part of the nineteenth century turquoise was found in the USA with deposits that were the equal of the quality of the gems from Persia. Nowadays the United States is the largest producer of this lovely precious stone.

How the Native Americans Used Turquoise
The Apache, Navajo and Pueblo tribes used turquoise as an amulet frequently believing it could influence an archer’s aim. The original turquoise jewelry made by Native Americans included mosaics, beads and carvings and only from around 1880 was the characteristic silver jewelry made. Navajo artisans started to make this style of jewelry from silver coins for trade with white men.

Looking After Turquoise Jewelry
Turquoise is moderately soft and must be looked after with care to avoid being scratched. It can become dull if it is heated, or exposed to sunlight or weak acids so you should take care to take off any turquoise jewelry before using household chemicals or hot water. More info here

See also Yellow Gems

Amethyst – The February Birthstone
This birthstone is a variety of quartz, and possesses a vibrant purple hue. The Greeks believed amethyst to prevent intoxication, and often wore it when drinking. It was also once used in adorning crowns, particularly those of the British royalty. Amethyst is said to signify peace and spiritual wisdom, and is believed to cure headaches and insomnia, as well as bring good dreams.

Aquamarine – The March Birthstone
Aquamarine, as its name suggests, is translucent blue. It symbolizes safety and serenity, and has been used by those who travel by sea to guarantee a safe passage. It also means everlasting youth, and is said to help you get in touch with your inner child when worn.

Diamond – The April Birthstone
“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” says a song. But aside from its flawless beauty, have you ever wondered why this April birthstone is often used to express love? It’s most probably because its name comes from the Latin words “Dio”, which means God, and “amante”, which means love. Simply put, a diamond symbolizes “divine love”. It also represents innocence and constancy – both desirable attributes of love.

Emerald – The May Birthstone
Its rich green color makes emerald one of the most favorite birthstones out there. It is often used in making accessories like rings, bracelets, and necklaces. It is said to boost one’s intelligence, and heal the heart. some say it helps people become more healthy or flexible depending on the tradition.

Pearl – The June Birthstone
In ancient times, pearls were believed to be a mixture of moonlight and dewdrops, particularly because of its iridescence. Pearls are a product of shelled mollusks, but the most beautiful ones come from oysters. They are said to signify longevity, but some people also believe that giving them as gifts would bring tears to the recipient.

Ruby – The July Birthstone
Ruby is associated with passionate love. It is believed to bring good luck to one’s endeavors in romance, and is often used as ring ornaments. Ruby is unusual as it seems to be the July birthstone across many many traditions including Ayurvedic which is over 1000 years old.

Peridot – The August Birthstone
This birthstone boasts olive green hues, which does not grow dim at night. Though it is a very common stone, it is hard to find high gem quality peridot. It was originally found in Egypt, and is believed to drive away evil spirits. It also brings forth good luck. Some say that this gem will help dreams become a reality.

Sapphire – The September Birthstone
Sapphire was once believed to be the source of the sky’s color. Sapphire comes in many colors besides blue such as: yellow, pink and orange. Red sapphire is actually ruby.
Sapphire means lotus blossom. It is a symbol wisdom and truth. It also signifies commitment and loyalty, and is a popular choice of jewelry.

Opal – The October Birthstone
Opal is most enjoyed for the array of colors it displays. Its vivid flashes of color is sure to enchant any pair of eyes that fixes its gaze upon it. Shakespeare even used it as his muse once. Similar to its play of colors, this birthstone is also associated with delight.
Most high quality opal comes from Australia. Some say that opal helps one see more of the available possibilities.

Citrine – The November Birthstone
This birthstone’s name comes from the French word for lemon, “citron”. It is the most abundant mineral, and signifies light-heartedness. One often wears citrine to have more happiness enter their lives.

Turquoise – The December Birthstone
Turquoise has a blue-green color that has been used as an ornament as early as the time of the pharaohs. It is said to be a stone of power, one that could amplify the strength of the person who wears it. Contrary to its powerful image, however, turquoise is easily damaged by chemical agents like soap, and is advised to be kept with care to avoid discoloration.

Read more info here