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Gem in the Spotlight: Pearl

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Folklore, Gem Spotlight, Gemology, Pearl, Pearl Jewelry

Pearls have captured the imagination and adoration of people from diverse backgrounds throughout history. They are both … and infinitely complex. Let’s explore the science, history, and lore surrounding this most unique gem. How Are Pearls Formed? Pearls are formed when a foreign object enters the shell of a mollusk and irritates the soft mantle tissue … and protect itself. Over time, layer upon layer of nacre is deposited around the irritant, eventually forming a pearl. This process can occur naturally or via human intervention. Natural pearls grow in the wild without human intervention…

How to Clean Pearl Jewelry

FJU Category: Care & Cleaning | Tags: Gemology, How To, Jewelry Cleaning, Pearl, Pearl Jewelry, Tips and Tricks

Pearls are considered by many to be symbols of purity and chastity. But even symbols of purity get dirty from time to time…As you know pearls are produced when a mollusk secretes nacre to form a covering around a foreign body in its shell. Pearls are not as durable as gemstones produced by the heaving pressure beneath the earth’s surface. Therefore special … on and the first thing that you take off. Common personal products like cosmetics and perfume can severely damage pearls. They should be cleaned in warm soapy water periodically, gently scrubbing individually with a soft brush. A soft …

Types of Jewelry Clasps

FJU Category: General Info | Tags: Chain, Clasps, Comparison

… need to be adjusted though. Bring it in to your local jeweler to have them check it out. Strand Fish Hook Clasp (Pearl Clasp) At first glance you might thing this style of clasp is something like a sideways box clasp. Indeed, some box … catch and prevent the clasp from opening fully. It is a clever and beautiful design that is most often found on pearl strands, but it can work with most chain designs. PROS Style – This is a delicate, low-profile fastener that enhances …

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Birthstones, Folklore, Gemology

…. It was also believed to be a symbol of faith and loyal friendship. Learn more about Emerald June’s Birthstone: Pearl (Moonstone, Alexandrite, Rhodolite Garnet) Pearls are often associated with love and tears, they were dedicated to … tears of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Pearls are recognized as the emblem of modesty, chastity and purity. A pearl is the product of an oyster’s defense mechanism. When a foreign irritant is introduced either by man (cultured) or …

Styles of Earring Backs

FJU Category: General Info | Tags: Comparison, Earring Backs, Stud Earrings

…earring in place–hence the name. Often times the post has a notch so that the back actually snaps into place. PROS Availability – These backs are the go-to for many jewelry wearers. Security – They are a secure option, ideal for both stud earrings and dangle earrings. Ease of Use – They are easy to put on and take off. Budget Friendly – Friction backs are among the more budget friendly styles. CONS Losing an Earring – The closest thing to a con for this style is that …

Gem in the Spotlight: Opal

FJU Category: Gemstones | Tags: Folklore, Gem Spotlight, Gemology, Opal

… commonly used in jewelry. For reference, here are the Mohs hardness values for some other gemstones you may know: Diamond 10, Sapphire 9, Amethyst 7, and Peridot 6. Turquoise is about as hard as opal, but you would need to consider Pearl or Amber (both 2.5) to find a commonly used gem that is softer than opal. Common Opal Treatments There are several different treatments that can be applied to opals to alter their appearance. By far the most common is “sugar” or “smoke…