With the hot fashion statement of vintage so in these days
extra care should be taken in cleaning and repairing your lovely vintage jewellery
and sparkling rhinestone finds. Antique and vintage jewellery is one of the few
collectibles one can buy to truly enjoy and wear as the cost of the imposters
to real jewels is minimal the enjoyment from wearing it far outweighs the risk
of loss.
Rhinestone costume jewellery beauties, often called foil and
paste, are not made from precious metals or real stones so extra care is
necessary to keep your less than perfect fun baubles in sparkling condition. The
synthetic cut-glass stones often have foil in behind to add more colour and
reflection and also as it is so much softer than gemstones it is easily
scratched and tends to look duller.
Moisture can and will destroy your favourite piece of
rhinestones jewellery if it is not cleaned properly. Not just cleaning product or water moisture
but your own sweat can harm these lovely stones. The moisture can collect under
the foil behind the stone eventually peeling it away and deadening the sparkle.
Brushing the piece with a soft clean cosmetic or small
artists brush will remove the dust. Any built up residue can be gently eased
away with a tiny piece of a lens cleaning cloth moistened on the cloth only,
not the gems, with an approved eyeglass cleaner. If any scrubbing action is
needed to get the piece clean water damp but well squeezed out q-tip can be
used.
Cleaning the metal should only be buffed using a soft
jeweller flannel-cloth intended for that
purpose with care being taken not to catch any of the setting in the cloth
while buffing. Placing the cleaned jewellery upside down while drying after
cleaning will help prevent any moisture from seeping into the foiled back
between the stone and the metal.
To replace or repair any damaged or lost rhinestones care
must be taken to not scratch the soft synthetic or glass gems in the changeover.
Stone setting pliers and jewellers tools will aid in the delicate process as
will a professional glue. Jeweller’s glue, also used in eyeglass repair, will
not yellow with age.
Many websites are available where you can find replacement
stones in all shapes, colors and sizes such as round, square, flat back,
pointed and more can be had to repair your vintage and antique jewellery.
Not all costume jewellery carries little value so cleaning
and caring for your gems will protect your investment. Many famous makers of
authentic jewels stepped out in the 1920’s and through the post war times,
creating intentional fake gem pieces to market to the everyday woman. Many of
these synthetic pins and jewels by notable makers such as Trifari, Dior,
Chanel, Eisenberg and more are avidly collected and bringing strong prices in
spite of their imitation qualities.
Many beautiful pieces to choose from in my vintage fashions LandLockedCottage shop.
Which is your favourite? I love them all.
