Jewellery Odyssey:
An essential embellishment that would commonly be worn during the 19th century, was ornamental stick and scarf pins. These were convenient jewels, that would hold heavy fabrics (like silk, satin or lace) in place, near the neckline. The pins would consist of an elongated thin rod, topped with a bejewelled head. The head would typically be encrusted with gemstones and form a motif, that was considered relevant at the time. Oscar Wilde once expressed “that all beautiful things are made by those who strive to make something useful.” Indeed, these pins were both practical and aesthetically pleasing, at the same time. Expectedly, the pins were a fashion staple that lasted throughout the entire Victorian Period.
Gem Lore:
Diamond - derives from the Greek word ‘adamas’, which translates to ‘invincible’. Today, the meaning somewhat refers, to the gemstones excellent hardness (ranking 10 on Mohs' scale), hence diamonds are highly resistant to be scratched or abraded by another material, other than diamonds itself. Moreover, diamonds possess the magical phenomenon of fire, which relies on the facetted gemstones ability to disperse (split) light, into a rainbow of colours.
The ancient Egyptians thought diamonds symbolised life, and the Pharaohs were known to place the gemstone in the centre of an ankh cross. Whereas, the ancient Greeks believed diamonds to be the tears of the gods or broken splinters from fallen stars. Alternatively, in ancient Roman literature it is noted that Cupids arrows were ‘diamond tipped’, maybe one of the first references that associates the gemstone with love.
Ruby - derives from the Latin word ‘ruber’, which simply translate to ‘red’. Ruby, possesses a variation of subtle overtones: from rosey pinks to golden browns, that glimmer against its famed scarlet red body colour. Early cultures thought the stone resembled the colour of blood, leading to the belief that rubies symbolised life. This gemstone was worn by many ancient warriors, on their shields or armour to provide protection. Today, the richness of ruby imbues passion, love and success.
Jewellery Care Precautions:
Avoid direct contact with: perfume, lotions, skincare, hairspray / other chemicals. Remove, your jewellery: when showering, swimming (as both chlorine and saltwater will react with metals), washing your hands / using hand sanitisers, before going to bed or when participating in physical activities (going to the gym, exercising, gardening, housework etc….).
Beware, metals may tarnish over time due to oxygen contact and natural body oils. Prevent items from being exposed to moisture and direct sunlight, for long periods. Store jewellery in a dry place away from humidity, in a pouch/jewellery box and keep each piece separated from each other. Care, for your jewellery by cleaning with a soft dry cloth.
Yellow Gold:
Gold as an element, in its purest form will not tarnish, but gold used in jewellery has been alloyed with other metals, to increase durability. These metals have properties that when in contact with oxygen, chemicals, oils or other substances - will result in a surface tarnish or damage and corrosion. Even the pH level of you skin and the natural oils it produces, can tarnish your gold jewellery.
To prevent your gold jewellery from tarnishing or even disintegrating, avoid exposure to household chemicals, bleaches, toothpaste, baking soda and other cleaning abrasives. Wearing jewellery in places where perfumes, hairsprays, body lotions have been applied on your body, will increase tarnishing. Wear your jewellery after the products have been applied. To clean your gold jewellery, use a mild soap with warm water and dry with a soft cloth. For professional cleaning, our workshop can polish your jewellery back to life.
Platinum:
Platinum as an element in it purest form, is denser and stronger than gold. Due to this, platinum can be used in a purer form than gold, and when used in jewellery, 90-95% of platinum is alloyed with cobalt/iridium. Containing a high purity of platinum, means that of all of the precious metals used in jewellery, platinum is the most hypoallergenic.
Platinum is naturally white in colour and unlike white gold or sterling silver it will not tarnish, fade or discolour. However with natural age and wear, the high polish will dull to a darker matte tone and the metal will develop a patina of age. Although durable, platinum has a softer surface than 18ct white gold, and the appearance of scratches are more visible. Heavy wear will result in surface damages of little bumps and ridges.
To prolong the condition and surface wear of platinum, it is advisable to practise our jewellery care precautions. A professional polish, with our workshop, will revive the high mirror-like polish and smooth surface of your platinum jewellery.
Diamond:
Hardness: 10 | Toughness: Good | Stability: Excellent
Low Caution: A very durable gemstone, generally it is safe to use in; Jewellery Cleaners (Dips, Ultrasonic, Steam Cleaners).
Gemmological Observation: Diamonds have excellent hardness, this means only a diamond can scratch/abrade another diamond. To avoid scratches, store your diamond set jewellery separately. Diamonds only have good toughness, as they possess perfect cleavage. This means that if knocked in the wrong direction, the diamond can cleave/fracture. Whilst wearing, you will need to avoid: Sudden Impact (sharp knocks). If the diamond is heavily fractured, you will need to avoid using: Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic, steam cleaners).
Ruby, Corundum:
Hardness: 9 | Toughness: Excellent | Stability: Very Good
Low Caution: A very durable gemstone, generally it is safe to use in; Jewellery Cleaners (dips, ultrasonic and steam cleaners).
Gemmological Observation: Corundums are a very durable gemstone. However, if lead-glass filled or heavily fractured, you will need to avoid: Chemicals (acid, detergents), Direct Heat, Jewellery Cleaners (ultrasonic, steam cleaners).
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