Has your favorite blue topaz ring lost its sparkle? Instead of tossing the ring back into your jewelry box, you can restore the shine of your December birthstone bauble without going on a shopping spree for a new, and somewhat pricey, blue gemstone ring. In fact, there's no need to make an appointment with your personal jeweler -- cleaning your blue topaz ring is easy to do in the comfort of your home.

Warm 1 cup of tap water on the stove or in a microwave. Pour the water into a bowl, making sure the water is not boiling hot.

Add a few drops of dish detergent. Use a spoon to mix the soapy cleaning solution. Soak the ring in the bowl of soapy water for 20 minutes.

Dip the bristles of the toothbrush into the solution. Place the wet ring on your finger. Use the toothbrush to carefully scrub the gemstone and ring band. Pay attention to any crevices or decorative grooves where dirt may be embedded.

Remove the ring from your finger and use the toothbrush to clean the underside of the blue topaz setting. Work the bristles of the brush around the prongs, making sure to remove any dried lotions or cosmetics from the ring.

Warm another cup of water. Pour the warm water into a new bowl. Rinse the ring by swishing it in the clear, warm water. Use a soft, dry cotton cloth to dry the ring.