Marcasite jewelry has been a favorite for years because to its glistening beauty and antique vibe.
MARCASITE JEWELRY VINTAGE
What exactly is Marcasite?
The mineral iron sulphide is known as marcasite, and it is mined all over the world. However, because real marcasite breaks into dust and is therefore too fragile to be utilized in jewelry, the majority of marcasite used in jewelry is actually iron pyrite. MARCASITE JEWELRY
Iron sulphide and iron pyrite have the same chemical makeup, but they crystallize differently. Iron pyrite is also known as fool’s gold because many gold miners throughout history believed they had struck gold when they came across iron pyrite with brilliant, brassy streaks.
Marcasite History
Marcasite jewelry has a long history dating back hundreds of years. Archaeologists have uncovered samples of iron pyrite jewelry in Incan burial sites in Peru, and ancient Greeks were also known to use it. Marcasite was popular in the 18th century and may be found as lockets, brooches, and cameos. This gem was popular during the Victorian era and was frequently utilized at the time.
Following her husband’s death, Britain’s Queen Victoria elected to wear the black attire and jewelry indicative of widowhood, and she did so until her death decades later. Her subjects followed her lead, and dark and muted clothes and accessories were popular for many years. The deeper colors of iron pyrite made it excellent for this style of jewelry, and its inexpensive price tag made it a popular.
Jewelry
Marcasite is still a popular choice for jewelry because of the added shine it adds. Even when brand new, this sort of jewelry has an enticing antique aspect, and many people buy it for the estate jewelry look. Because marcasite and sterling silver make such a beautiful combination, this stone is typically set in silver or similar white metal.
It is rarely used with yellow gold since the two do not mix well. When used in jewelry, the gem is frequently cut into the shape of a pyramid. Onyx is usually combined with marcasite to create an eye-catching design, and it is also frequently combined with pearl, mother of pearl, opal, and crystal. Glass, steel, or other metals are sometimes used.
Cleaning and caring:
To keep marcasite jewelry looking its best, it must be cleaned and cared for correctly. While prongs are used to fix many types of stones in jewelry, jeweler’s cement is usually employed to secure iron pyrite in its setting. It is critical to avoid getting the jewelry wet, since this might cause the stones to become loose and fall out of the setting. MARCASITE JEWELRY
Always take off iron pyrite jewelry before swimming, showering, or bathing. Also, remember to take off rings and bracelets before washing your hands, doing your dishes, or using strong cleaning detergents. Avoid using steamers, water, chemical cleaners, or ultrasonic cleaners to clean your jewelry.
MARCASITE JEWELRY Gently washing the jewelry with a soft, dry or slightly moist cloth can eliminate tarnish and keep the stones clean without destroying the piece. If you use a little moist towel, please sure to properly dry the jewelry after washing it. Silver jewelry may typically be kept tarnish-free by just wearing it on a regular basis.
