Ultrasonic cleaners use millions of imploding bubbles created by sound waves to blast dirt and grime off jewelry without scrubbing.

Ultrasonic cleaners operate using sound waves in the frequency range of 20 kHz to 400 kHz. These high-frequency waves create alternating cycles of high and low pressure within a liquid solvent. During the low-pressure phase, millions of microscopic bubbles form in a process called cavitation.As the pressure cycles shift, these bubbles become unstable and collapse violently. Each implosion generates localized temperatures of up to 5,000 Kelvin and pressure bursts of approximately 1.35 megapascals. These micro-jets of energy effectively strip away contaminants including oil, grease, and oxidation from jewelry surfaces.The technology was first patented for commercial use in the 1950s and became widespread in the jewelry and medical industries by the 1970s. Because the bubbles are smaller than 1 micrometer in diameter, they can reach deep into intricate filigree and gemstone settings that manual brushes cannot access. This makes ultrasonic cleaning the preferred method for delicate items like watches and precious gemstones.