Nacre is the technical word for what is commonly known as pearl. It is a special coating that is found on the inside of sea creatures called mollusks. The latter can survive in both saltwater and freshwater. Technically a hydrated gemstone, mother of pearl jewelry is made from the aforementioned coating. The procedures used to make pieces of this kind are complicated and lengthy.
Creating such adornments involves cutting, polishing and inlaying, and special tools must be used to ensure that quality pieces are designed. They also require a specific type of care and cleaning that is quite different from the techniques used on pieces made from other materials or gemstones.
Most designers who work with mother of pearl begin with polishing the iridescent material with 1000 grit sandpaper. The latter is the best type of sandpaper for this task, although products that feature a lower grit can also be used. However, anything less than 600 grit will offer unsatisfactory results. In addition, the sandpaper used must be of the wet-dry variety.
The crafter will then blot the surface with water and proceed to sand the piece. When this is completed, a soft cloth is used to wipe away the moisture and dust that was left behind. This process is repeated until the surface features a white glossy finish. The designer must wear a protective eye mask when sanding, as Nacre residue can be hazardous, although this fact is unknown to many individuals.
When the crafter is ready to cut the intended design a jeweler's saw will be needed. Most designers position a piece of wood underneath the area on which they are working. The saw is then utilized to craft the desired shape. Other tools such as drills and burrs are also frequently used throughout the process.
Jewel crafters also use various inlay methods to create ornate pieces such as pearl pendants inlaid with wood. The result of this combination offers a rich contrast that many jewelry fans favor. Creative designers can produce a one of a kind necklace for those who wish to purchase unique pieces.
One can purchase Nacre and other natural gemstone jewelry products online or at traditional stores. Regardless of where it is purchased, however, Mother of pearl jewelry is prone to chipping and cracking. Therefore, to keep such pieces from becoming brittle, they should be stored away from sunlight in a cool, dry place. When appropriately cared for, adornments of this type can be worn and enjoyed by consumers for many years.
Creating such adornments involves cutting, polishing and inlaying, and special tools must be used to ensure that quality pieces are designed. They also require a specific type of care and cleaning that is quite different from the techniques used on pieces made from other materials or gemstones.
Most designers who work with mother of pearl begin with polishing the iridescent material with 1000 grit sandpaper. The latter is the best type of sandpaper for this task, although products that feature a lower grit can also be used. However, anything less than 600 grit will offer unsatisfactory results. In addition, the sandpaper used must be of the wet-dry variety.
The crafter will then blot the surface with water and proceed to sand the piece. When this is completed, a soft cloth is used to wipe away the moisture and dust that was left behind. This process is repeated until the surface features a white glossy finish. The designer must wear a protective eye mask when sanding, as Nacre residue can be hazardous, although this fact is unknown to many individuals.
When the crafter is ready to cut the intended design a jeweler's saw will be needed. Most designers position a piece of wood underneath the area on which they are working. The saw is then utilized to craft the desired shape. Other tools such as drills and burrs are also frequently used throughout the process.
Jewel crafters also use various inlay methods to create ornate pieces such as pearl pendants inlaid with wood. The result of this combination offers a rich contrast that many jewelry fans favor. Creative designers can produce a one of a kind necklace for those who wish to purchase unique pieces.
One can purchase Nacre and other natural gemstone jewelry products online or at traditional stores. Regardless of where it is purchased, however, Mother of pearl jewelry is prone to chipping and cracking. Therefore, to keep such pieces from becoming brittle, they should be stored away from sunlight in a cool, dry place. When appropriately cared for, adornments of this type can be worn and enjoyed by consumers for many years.
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