How to Clean Crystals Without Damaging Them

The best crystal-cleaning method is usually the least dramatic one that works.

Step 1: dry dusting

Use a soft artist’s brush, clean makeup brush or air blower to remove loose dust from clusters and crevices.

Step 2: slightly damp cloth

For polished, reasonably durable material, a barely damp microfibre cloth is often enough. Dry the piece afterwards.

Step 3: species-specific cleaning

Only move to washing or soaking when you know the mineral, matrix and treatments can tolerate it. Gypsum/selenite should stay dry. Pyrite should be protected from moisture. Malachite should not be exposed to acids.

Avoid blanket “cleansing” recipes

Salt water, vinegar, sunlight and ultrasonic cleaners can damage particular minerals, coatings, repairs or matrix. A ritual that is symbolically meaningful does not need to involve physically immersing the specimen.

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