Are they worth the investment?

What about this one?

http://www.amazon.com/Ultrasonic-Jewelry...431&sr=1-35

most of them are really just Vibromatics... all they do is vibrate the water and make a LOT of noise.
.... like, you could get just about the same results by putting your ring in a (closed) container of GemCare and sitting it on top of your washing machine during the spin cycle.

only the ones about $75+ (mostly up) can actually truly be ultrasonic.


i *knew* that, but still, i found one at a thrift store for about $2 so i picked it up to give it a try. and yeah, it's a Vibromatic. not a "professional jewelry cleaning solution"
the one i picked up is the Connoisseurs ultrasonic "la sonic plus" i think.

I think for the price of a true ultrasonic, you can spend $20 more and get a steamer.

Thanks ladies! I knew you would know. Didn't realize there was such a difference.

Do you guys think steamers are worth the price? If so, what type? I've read some reviews that say that the Jewel Jet isn't as effective as an espresson machine, but I wouldn't want to just randomly buy an expresso machine to clean my jewelry. Thoughts?

I use our laundry steamer. But the nozzle is large, so I have to just put the rings in a dish and then steam the whole dish. I do find it effective, but I always soak and scrub first. I don't know if I would buy one just for jewelry, but if it has others functions, like clothes or upholstry, I think it is a good investment.

Where could I buy a good steamer or ultrasonic cleaner?

Thanks Jcent! I actually do own a fabric steamer that looks just like this:



Should the be sufficent in order to use the same technique as you (with the cup)? Also, does the steam dry instantly, and leave a flawless finish, or do you still have to dry?

I think that will work, mine has a similar head on it. They are dry when I am done, but I don't steam for a long time or anything. I just do it for a second, and then flip them over and do it again. If you end up with water in the dish, maybe put a tea towel in the bottom.

I have one like this but a different name: ultrasonic cleaner. Occasionally I put my fingers into the water when it's running to be sure it's still working, LOL! It doesn't hurt but I can certainly feel a mild tingliness. This definitely cleans my sparklies the best---I add a liberal squirt of Palmolive to the water and let it run for eight minutes (480 setting). After rinsing in running water, I put the sparklies into a weensie container of alcohol for a few seconds so that there's no water spots.