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Care and Cleaning
GEMSTONE, a modern solid surfacing material manufactured by Gemstone provides a choice of solid and patterned surfaces to give a rich luxurious feeling to kitchen counters, work islands, wet bars, shower enclosures, tub surrounds, vanity tops, window sills, table tops, and many other applications. GEMSTONE solid surfaces are manufactured with the color and pattern running throughout its thickness to give it a soft, deep translucency. This feature allows the selection of a wide variety of edge treatments for a customized look and allows you to repair minor damages to maintain a like new appearance indefinitely. No special cleaning products are needed to keep GEMSTONE Solid Surface looking beautiful day in and day out.
While GEMSTONE Solid Surface is extremely tough and durable, like any fine material it can be damaged if abused or mistreated. Reviewing these care and cleaning instructions can assist you in understanding how easy it is to care for GEMSTONE Solid Surface products and how you can prevent more severe damage that may require professional repairs.

Normal Cleaning
GEMSTONE Solid Surfaces are non-porous so they can be easily wiped clean with a damp cloth or sponge and mild detergents or general purpose cleaners. If you have a factory matte finish, abrasive cleaners may also be used. Periodically, it may also be helpful to go over the entire surface with an abrasive cleaner or a wet Scotch Brite* pad to maintain a uniform appearance.

Spills and Stains
While most everyday spills can be removed with the cleaning techniques mentioned previously, some troublesome spills and stains such as food/hair dye, tea and fruit drinks may require more aggressive cleaning. These items can be removed with a solution of 50/50 bleach and water allowed to sit for 15 minutes , drained, and flushed with water. Follow with a general cleaner and flush with water. On factory matte finish, if you prefer, you can scrub with an abrasive cleanser.

Cigarettes
GEMSTONE Solid Surface will not burn, but should a lighted cigarette accidentally come in contact with the surface it could leave a nicotine stain or a scorch mark. Either of these can be removed with an abrasive cleaner or buffing with a Scotch Brite* pad.

Some Simple Precautions
DO NOT place hot pans directly from the burner or the oven onto the GEMSTONE Solid Surface. Even though GEMSTONE Solid Surface can withstand sustained temperatures up to 225F., prolonged or extreme heat could cause yellowing and/or cracking. A raised trivet should always be used under heated appliances, such as crock pots, electric frying pans, bread machines, and deep fryers. Frozen foods should also be placed on a trivet to prevent cracking due to extreme temperature differences. In the bathroom, curling irons, blow dryers, hot rollers, etc. should be place on a trivet to prevent scorching.
DO NOT use your countertop as a cutting board. Although minor cuts and scratches can be repaired, deep cuts will require the services of a professional, which is an extra expense.
DO NOT expose to extreme temperature fluctuations. Boiling water should be drained into the sink with cold water running. Rapid changes in water temperature may cause cracking.
Strong acids such as those found in drain cleaners, toilet bowl and oven cleaners should be used cautiously around GEMSTONE Solid Surfaces. If these items are accidentally spilled, wipe them up at once, flush with clear lukewarm water and wipe with a clean sponge.

Repairing Scratches
GEMSTONE solid surfaces are usually supplied with a matte finish (unless specified otherwise) which is equivalent to sanding with 320-350 grit sandpaper or buffing with a wet #7448 Scotch Brite* pad. For removing superficial scratches use a wet Scotch Brite* scouring pad, available in most supermarkets, until the scratches are removed. Clean thoroughly with soap and water and let dry. Note: Deep scratches can be removed by first carefully sanding lightly with 120 grit sandpaper followed by 220- 320 grit sandpaper. Then use a wet #7448 Scotch Brite* pad to restore the finish. (available from industrial supply houses)

Gloss Finish (optional) For any damage, contact your fabricator/installer to repair.

* Registered trademark of 3MCorp.

Copyright (c) 2007 by Gemstone Inc.