Jewels mean precious stones. Jewellery means ornaments in
which stones are set. Costume jewellery contains imitation or simulated stones
made of colored glass. Stones may be cut in various types to increase their beauty
and luster. The facets of a stone are the flat polished surfaces. The more
facets cut into a stone, the more brilliant it appears!
The quality of genuine pearls depends on luster, color,
shape, flawlessness and size. Cameos are carved figures raised above the
surface of the stone. Quartz and onyx are cut in this way. Intaglios are carved
figures indented into the stone. “Cloisonne” is an enamel type decoration in
which designs are stamped into metal and the indentations filled with various
colored enamels.
Cleaning, care and storage of jewellery is equally
important. It not only preserves its beauty but also increases its life! As we
are already aware, jewellery is made by various methods and each requires care
according to kind.
- Paste jewellery: Stones may be set with paste. Never wash such jewellery as water may soften the cement. Cover with French chalk, rub it in with soft brush and brush out. Take care of Cameos, they are breakable. So handle with care. Boil cameo in a pan of household ammonia for a few minutes to loosen oily grit and film. Then wash with soap, warm water, rinse and dry.
- Cleaning of Diamonds and other gems: Take a pan and boil water in it. Clean the settings by adding a little ammonia, and dry thoroughly. Digging around a stone may make it loose.
- Cleaning of Pearls: These are popular, as they are well suited for all occasions. They are generally stringed. Examine strings for signs of wear. Pearls in constant use must be stringed yearly. Wash with mild soap using a soft brush. Rub occasionally with a dry, soft chamois or flannel. Replace flat in a case lined with velvet.
- Cleaning of Silver: Silver polish is available in the market. Apply, let it dry and polish with a soft clean cloth. Use soft brush for carving and filigree. Remove all powder using soft brush. Wash in warm soap suds, if necessary.
- Cleaning of Gold plate: Rub with chamois. Use mild silver polish and rub gently. Nowadays gold polish is also available. However it is expensive. Never rub through plating. Never expose to salt or perspiration. Dry and store.
- Cleaning of Steel jewellery: Use soda bicarb and scrub well to remove tarnish.
- Cleaning of Amber beads: Rub with flannel or chamois dipped lightly in olive oil.
- Cleaning of Lac work: If plain, should be rubbed with a soft cloth. Never allow to drop.
- Cleaning of Costume jewellery: It should be cared for as per the material of which it is made.
- General care: Jewellery should be protected from dust. When not in use, store it in jewellery boxes. Nowadays a wide variety of boxes are available. Previously boxes were made of silver, brass and wood and even ivory. They were lined with velvet. Beautiful boxes are displayed in museums. Even your grandmother may possess a beautiful box.
- The present-day boxes are cheaper and light weight. They are made from cardboard or plywood and lined with velvet. Plastic boxes are equally attractive too.
- If velvet is not available or is damaged, use soft flannel or even cotton. Special boxes are available for storing earrings. Nowadays jewellery travel kits are also available. It is a neat way of preserving your jewellery during travel.
Jewellery lends grace and dignity to your whole appearance
and personality. It deserves a little care too. Care for it, and it will care
for you!
