Many gemstone lovers throughout the world prefer mother of pearl jewelry. This is not surprising when one considers the characteristics of natural gemstone jewelry when compared to costume pieces. However, numerous fans of the gemstone wonder how it is fashioned.
However, to understand the process, it is wise to gather a little information about the jewel itself. It is essentially an iridescent coating that is mined from both freshwater and saltwater. The substance is found on the bodies of mollusks that live underwater in areas such as the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.
The aforementioned creatures secrete fine proteins which coat their shells. When mined, mother of pearl is classified as a hydrated gem. For this reason it is necessary for a skilled designer to cut, inlay and polish the gemstone. This type of work requires different skills from those which are used to design traditional gemstones.
The substance that is typically used to polish the gemstone is French chalk. The latter contains a lubricating agent and when used for polishing, it results in the smoothness and sheen for which this type of pearl is well-known. Also called soapstone, such chalk features a fine, powdery consistency.
After mining, this gemstone sometimes features a particularly rough texture. If this is the case, a bit of sanding may be necessary prior to using the soapstone. The tool typically used for this task is thousand grit, wet-dry sandpaper. The latter is the wisest choice for the polishing of delicate surfaces. However, care must be taken by the polisher so that the surface of the gemstone is not harmed.
The designs with which such pieces can be adorned are virtually limitless. Good designers can create beautiful pieces that will turn heads at any occasion. This type of jewelry can be purchased on the internet or from traditional jewelers. Regardless of where it is purchased, however, one should ask for proof of authenticity before the transaction is complete.
Almost anyone who owns a one of a kind necklace or similar pieces considers it a privilege and wants to preserve the items well. For this reason, proper care is important. Such pieces should be kept in cool, dry places where humidity and direct sunlight are not present.
Additionally, the pieces should be wiped with a damp cloth to prevent their surfaces from drying. This should be done every two to three weeks. When cared for properly, mother of pearl jewelry can be worn and enjoyed for many years.
However, to understand the process, it is wise to gather a little information about the jewel itself. It is essentially an iridescent coating that is mined from both freshwater and saltwater. The substance is found on the bodies of mollusks that live underwater in areas such as the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Barrier Reef of Australia.
The aforementioned creatures secrete fine proteins which coat their shells. When mined, mother of pearl is classified as a hydrated gem. For this reason it is necessary for a skilled designer to cut, inlay and polish the gemstone. This type of work requires different skills from those which are used to design traditional gemstones.
The substance that is typically used to polish the gemstone is French chalk. The latter contains a lubricating agent and when used for polishing, it results in the smoothness and sheen for which this type of pearl is well-known. Also called soapstone, such chalk features a fine, powdery consistency.
After mining, this gemstone sometimes features a particularly rough texture. If this is the case, a bit of sanding may be necessary prior to using the soapstone. The tool typically used for this task is thousand grit, wet-dry sandpaper. The latter is the wisest choice for the polishing of delicate surfaces. However, care must be taken by the polisher so that the surface of the gemstone is not harmed.
The designs with which such pieces can be adorned are virtually limitless. Good designers can create beautiful pieces that will turn heads at any occasion. This type of jewelry can be purchased on the internet or from traditional jewelers. Regardless of where it is purchased, however, one should ask for proof of authenticity before the transaction is complete.
Almost anyone who owns a one of a kind necklace or similar pieces considers it a privilege and wants to preserve the items well. For this reason, proper care is important. Such pieces should be kept in cool, dry places where humidity and direct sunlight are not present.
Additionally, the pieces should be wiped with a damp cloth to prevent their surfaces from drying. This should be done every two to three weeks. When cared for properly, mother of pearl jewelry can be worn and enjoyed for many years.
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Clergy Style by Paul offers great prices on natural gemstone jewelry. Check out their website to learn more! (http://www.clergystyledrobesandclothing.com)
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