Problem: Article: Small pieces of amethyst can be submerged in soapy water for 15 to 20 minutes. This helps loosen up the dirt, making it easier to scrub off dirt and grime. If your geode is too big to submerge, soak a washcloth in warm water and add a small amount of dish detergent to it. Work up a lather and wipe down the sides of your amethyst with the cloth.  If your cloth gets dirty while scrubbing, rinse it off and add more soap. You are only trying to loosen up the dirt at this point, so don't worry too much if you're not getting everything off the amethyst. Just make sure to get the amethyst as wet as possible before moving on to the scrubbing process. Amethyst should be rubbed down with a toothbrush after soaking. Use the toothbrush to remove any grease or grime stuck to the amethyst. Work the toothbrush into any unusual cracks and crevices in the amethyst, making sure to scrub harder on dirtier areas.  Rinse the amethyst in a bowl of clear water as you brush it off. This helps remove any dirt or grime you dislodged. For a piece of amethyst that's very dirty, this process can take as long as 30 minutes. Have patience and get in a comfortable position as you scrub your amethyst. Amethyst jewelery may not require as vigorous scrubbing, as it is likely not as prone to built up dirt. Something like a geode will require more time commitment, while a piece of jewelery may only need a quick wipe down. Once the amethyst has been soaked or scrubbed, rinse it off completely. Stick to using warm water for the rinsing process. Remember, hot or cold water can damage amethyst.  Smaller pieces of amethyst can be soaked in clear water or under the sink. Make sure to rinse the amethyst until water runs clear. Left on soap can cause damage to your amethyst. Large pieces of amethyst may have to be rinsed with a hose. Make sure to use warm water and do not turn the hose on a high pressure setting. Spray down the amethyst until the water from the hose runs clear. You should never attempt to dry an amethyst manually, especially not with heat. After washing your amethyst, set it aside. Allow it to air dry completely before using it again.
Summary: Soak or wipe down your amethyst before scrubbing. Brush off any remaining gunk and rinse your amethyst. Rinse your amethyst. Allow amethyst to air dry.

Problem: Article: Your marriage, whether you have a wedding or elope, is a moment you and your spouse will want to look back on. Ask a professional to document your vow ceremony or the ring exchange. If you really want to keep the wedding intimate, ask a friend or family member to take photos. You can wear the traditional wedding dress or tux, or you could wear something fun that expresses your personality (like a button-down with suspenders, a frilly knee-length dress, or an outfit with personal meaning). Eloping doesn't have to mean jeans and a t-shirt at the city clerk's office. If you've chosen to elope, you might not be up for the usual reception party. Instead, treat a few friends to a party after the ceremony. You can make a small registry, or you can ask guests to just bring themselves. Order a wedding cake, pop open a few bottles of champagne, and relax at your own mini-reception. Alternatively, go to dinner with your loved ones at a fancy restaurant after the ceremony. After the ceremony and after-party, go on a romantic getaway with your new husband or wife. Because elopement is so inexpensive, you can use some of the money you might have spent on a really nice honeymoon. If you're under time or cost restraints, spend a weekend in a nearby bed-and-breakfast or plan a staycation.
Summary:
Hire a professional photographer or videographer. Wear whatever clothes make you feel happiest. Have an "I Do" party in lieu of a reception. Go on a honeymoon.