How to Clean and Sanitize Your Jewelry, According to 3 Designers

Grace said that the alcohol in hand sanitizer can be used to wipe gold and diamonds, but does not suggest using it on softer gemstones like opals, emeralds, or turquoise, which are more porous.

"It's not a great idea to use hand sanitizer or alcohol-based products on these stones because they can corrode over time," Ashley said. "With stones like emeralds, certain cleaners are not compatible with the oil treatment of them. When in doubt, it's safer to use soap and water."