Orange Moonlight Necklace

This jewelry combines two distinct materials: the gemstone sunstone and lampwork glass beads. Each requires specific care to maintain its beauty.

Understanding the materials

Orange Moonlight Sunstone:
• Sunstone is a type of feldspar gemstone known for its aventurescence or Schiller effect, where light interacts with mineral inclusions to create a glittery appearance. It has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, although some Oregon sunstones can be as hard as 6.5 to 7.2. It is relatively durable for everyday wear but can be scratched by harder materials and is susceptible to damage from hard blows or improper cleaning. Sunstone has cleavage in two directions, which gives it a low toughness rating, according to GIA. Exposure to heat is not recommended, but its color is generally stable when exposed to light.

Polka Dot Lampwork Beads:
• These are handcrafted glass beads. According to B+C Guides, glass beads can be durable, but like any glass, they can chip or break if dropped or subjected to impacts. The colors are typically stable, but coatings or finishes on some beads might be sensitive to harsh chemicals. Lampwork beads also may have residues from the bead release used during their creation, which should be cleaned carefully.

General handling and wearing
Handle with Care:
• Both sunstone and lampwork beads can chip or break with impacts. Handle the jewelry gently.
Put Jewelry on Last:
• Apply cosmetics, lotions, perfumes, and hairspray before putting on your jewelry to minimize chemical exposure, which can dull gemstones or potentially affect bead finishes.
Remove Before Activities:
• Take off the jewelry before showering, swimming, cleaning with harsh detergents, exercising, or any activity where it might be subjected to knocks or blows.
Avoid Impacts:
• Do not drop the jewelry or knock it against hard surfaces.
Check Settings:
• Regularly inspect your jewelry for any loose beads or settings and have them repaired by a professional jeweler to avoid loss or further damage.

Cleaning
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
• Never use commercial jewelry cleaners, ammonia, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on this jewelry, as these can damage both the sunstone and the lampwork beads.
Warm Water and Mild Soap:
• The safest cleaning method for both sunstone and glass beads is warm, soapy water with a mild, alcohol-free soap.
• Gently dip a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush (like a baby toothbrush) into the soapy water.
• Wipe or gently brush the beads to remove dirt and grime.
• Rinse thoroughly under cool running water to remove soap residue.
• Pat dry immediately and completely with a clean, soft cloth.
Cleaning Lampwork Residue:
• If lampwork beads have white powdery residue (bead release) in the holes, use a pipe cleaner and dish liquid or soak them in warm water and dish detergent before using a fine mesh strainer to rinse them. Make sure they are thoroughly dried afterward.
Avoid Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners:
• These are too harsh for sunstone and can damage lampwork beads, especially if they have finishes or coatings.
Metal Components:
• If the jewelry has metal components (like clasps or stringing material), clean them according to the type of metal (e.g., use a silver polishing cloth for sterling silver, avoiding the stones).

Storage
Cool, Dry Place:
• Store the jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can potentially affect colors.
Separate Storage:
• Store the piece individually in a soft pouch or a lined compartment in a jewelry box to prevent scratching, especially since sunstone can scratch softer materials.
Anti-Tarnish:
• If the jewelry contains metal components like silver, consider storing it in an airtight bag or with anti-tarnish strips to absorb moisture and prevent tarnishing.

By following these specific care instructions, you can help preserve the unique beauty and ensure the longevity of your orange moonlight sunstone bead and polka dot lampwork bead jewelry.