Horseshoe Jewelry

No jewelry collection is complete without a good-luck charm. A horseshoe is considered a lucky charm in many parts of the world. It is believed that a horseshoe keeps evil away. So what better way is there to sport a lucky charm than to wear jewelry shaped as a horseshoe?

It is incredible how artistically the theme of horseshoes can be used to craft beautiful pieces of jewelry. From necklaces and pendants to rings and earrings, any type of jewelry can be fashioned after a horseshoe. Youngsters these days are sporting trendy horseshoe-shaped body jewelry like eyebrow rings, belly-button rings, nose rings and tongue rings.

Furthermore, the variety of designs available in the market is unlimited. Jewelry designers make use of all kinds of material to craft stunning pieces of horseshoe jewelry. It is cast in a range of precious metals like silver, gold, white gold, platinum and even surgical steel. More often than not, horseshoe jewelry is studded with diamonds, which impart a dazzling look to it. Other gemstones like peridot, rhinestone and black onyx are also used quite frequently. Some of the modern-day jewelry is also made of acrylic and titanium.

Though a simple horseshoe with its mystical shape looks exquisite, jewelry artists often innovate with the designs, crafting jewelry with two or more horseshoes. Some designs have a horsehead placed beautifully inside the horseshoe. One can also get rings with letters of the alphabet inscribed inside the curve of a horseshoe. Some creative designers have gone as far as making horseshoe jewelry that glows in the dark.

With its immense variety and mystical significance, horseshoe jewelry forms not only an important part of any jewelry collection, but it also acts as a perfect present for horse enthusiasts.

Pearl Jewelry Care

Your pearls are a valuable investment. Though their compact crystalline structure makes them durable, their exterior is delicate and soft. Proper care is necessary in order to maintain their beauty and luster for future generations to come.

Storing Pearls

Because pearls can be easily scratched or damaged, keep your pearls separated from other items or jewelry. They are best kept in a soft cloth, a soft pouch, or a soft, lined jewelry box. Do not keep your pearls in an airtight or excessively dry environment. They need moisture in order to prevent cracking. If they need to be kept in a safety deposit box or a vault, keep a damp (not wet) cloth nearby. Re-dampen as needed, but be careful not to have too much moisture. This can cause mildew.

Avoiding Harmful Products

Personal care products such as cosmetics, perfume and hair spray, can dull the pearl’s luster and should be applied before putting your pearls on. Other harmful products, such as vinegar, ammonia, chlorine bleach, and even inks will also damage the pearl surface. Make sure to remove your pearls before any strenuous exercise or work. Perspiration is another harmful substance that contains natural acids that can eat away at your pearl’s surface. These are all harmful substances that can spot or disintegrate the pearl’s beautiful nacre.

Cleaning Pearls

After each use, gently wipe your pearls with a warm, damp cloth before putting them away. Make sure not to use anything abrasive to wipe off the pearl surface. Periodically, gently wash your pearls in warm, soapy water using a mild soap (not a detergent) to remove any harmful buildup. After washing, gently rinse your pearls in clean water and then, wrap them in a thin, damp (not wet) cotton towel. Once the towel is dry, your pearls will be dry, too. Make sure not to hang your pearls to dry, since this can stretch the silk thread. If your pearls are particularly dirty, you can also wipe them with acetone polish remover. Unlike ammonia and vinegar, acetone will not damage your pearls.

Restringing Pearls

If your pearls are worn frequently, you should have them restrung annually. They should be restrung with silk thread and knotted in between each pearl to prevent them from rubbing against each other and possibly scattering, if the thread should break. The exception is with smaller pearls, since the knots could be aesthetically displeasing.

Christina Suh is a co-founder of www.Pearltopia.com, an online retailer of fine pearl jewelry.