Pearls

A pearl is unique in the fact that it is the only gemstone to be created from a living creature. Pearls are formed when a foreign object such as a grain of sand penetrates the body of the mollusk. The mollusk coats the object with layers of nacre, a natural substance commonly called mother-of-pearl, to protect itself from the foreign object. Only mollusks that produce mother-of-pearl are able to create a quality pearl. Common examples are freshwater clams and saltwater oysters.

Pearls are characterized by their translucence, shape, luster, and by a delicate play of surface color. The most perfect shapes are round, or tear drop and their value increases with their size and luster. Pearls with an irregular shape are referred to as Baroque and Blister pearls. The color of a pearl is dependent upon the type of mollusk and the environment in which it grows. Pearls range from black to white. Other colors include cream, gray, blue, yellow, lavender, green, mauve, and champagne. Pearls can also be treated to create a wide range of colors.

9 Steps to Pearl Care

Pearls, ivory, coral and amber are organic gems, which means they were created by living things. These gems are generally softer and more porous than gemstones.  They need special care.  Here are some specifics and apply to all of the organic gems, but especially pearls:

1. Wipe them clean with a moist cloth and don't soak them in water.
2. Don't get chemicals on them, and this includes hair spray, lotions, cosmetics or perfumes.
3. Don't clean them in an ultrasonic cleaner.
4. Protect them by wrapping them in soft fabric when storing them with other jewelry.
5. Be sure they are dry when storing them away.
6. Be sure you don't wear them when using ammonia, detergents or abrasive cleaners.
7. You can wash your pearls with mild soap and water.
8. The stringing material can be damaged by perspiration, cosmetics or oils, so have the pearls re-strung regularly.
9. Be sure a knot is placed between each pearl when re-strung to protect the pearl from the ones next to it and so they don't all fall off should the string break.

One easy way to check if a pearl is genuine is to gently rub one against the teeth, only a real pearl will feel rough to the touch. Pearls are weighed by carats (1 pearl grain = 50 milligrams = 1/4 carat) and those weighing less than 1/4 grain are called seed pearls. The largest naturally occurring pearls are the baroque pearls; one such pearl is known to have weighed 1,860 grains.

Pearls are categorized as natural pearls (foreign particle squeezes in the shell of the mollusk by chance), cultured pearls (the mollusk shell is opened and an irritant such as a mother-of-pearl bead is placed inside), and imitation pearls (made of glass, wax, and/or fish scale).

Pearls have been a symbol of purity and chastity for centuries and thus, pearl jewelry to this day a is popular wedding jewelry worn by many a bride.

Cameos

Seven Secrets of Shell Cameo Care

1. Store your shell cameo in a jewelry box drawer, away from direct sunlight and/or heat. Sunlight will fade cameos (I found out the hard way).
2. Don’t place on cotton lining - that will dry out the cameo.
3. Once a year, soak your shell cameo in mineral oil for a couple hours. After soaking, remove all oil from the surface with dish soap and a soft toothbrush (gently). Rinse thoroughly in lukewarm water. Make sure all oil is removed from the surface of your cameo. Choose an easy-to-remember day such as your birthday or anniversary.
4. Take care not to drop your cameo on the floor. Shell cameos are brittle and can break.
5. Don’t use any kind of harsh jewelry cleaner on your shell cameo. Harsh cleaners will dry out the cameo and ruin the finish, making it look dull and “etched”.
6. For antique cameos of any material (at least 50 years old), simply dust with a soft brush, rinse in tepid water, and pat dry with a cotton cloth.
7. If the cameo does break, consult a jewelry professional skilled in cameo repair for an opinion.

 

Caring for Your Wood Items

 

Jewelry Box Designs

Caring for your wooden jewelry boxes is simple and straight forward.  The finishing techniques I use ensure the wood will endure the test of time.   After the final shaping and sanding, a special blend of oils is applied to protect the wood and bring out the wood’s best character.  This is followed by a protective lacquer-based coat.

I do not recommend any type of oil or wax polish for the care of items you purchase from me.  In my experience these products can create a build up that will eventually interfere with the radiance of the wood.

Your jewelry box only needs an occasional dusting with a slightly damp cloth.  Remember, wood and water do not mix to equal durability so it is important that the cloth be only damp enough to attract any dust.  The best way I have found to clean any details or crevices is to use a small pipe cleaner.

Pens & Things

 

All other wood items listed on my site, unless otherwise noted, are finished with an all natural shellac finish and polished to a high shine. 

 

This finish, in time, will wear off with continued handling.  The great part is that, as the shellac wears off, it is simultaneously replaced with natural oils of your skin that will then act as natural protection for your item.

 

****Caution****  Shellac coating is alcohol soluble.  In fact, to apply shellac to any item, the flakes must first be dissolved in an alcohol solution which quickly evaporates.  To ensure your items are long lasting, keep them out of the reach of over spray from hair, make-up and perfume products. ****