Holly Robichaux Designs

The Greek origin of the word jasper, isaspis, means “spotted stone.”  This form of semi-precious chalcedony is usually red, brown or green.  Its patterns are much less regular and defined than those of the other chalcedony variety, agate.  Another difference between the two is that jaspers are generally opaque, while agates tend to be translucent (or at least contain translucent bands).  The gemstone is often named according to its pattern landscape jaspers are the most popular.  Jasper is often sealed with petroleum products.  Its polish might wash away in water, so clean with a soft, dry cloth. 

Pearls are less durable than most gems, and are sensitive to acids, dryness and extreme humidity.  Therefore, they should be cared for accordingly:

1.         If you wear cosmetics, perfume or hair spray, apply them before putting on your pearl jewelry.

2.         When taking off your pearls, wipe them with a dry, lint free cloth.  The calcium carbonate in pearls dissolves in human sweat or oil from the skin, and will diminish the pearls’ luster.

3.         Be sure they don’t get exposed for a long time to direct sunlight, especially ultraviolet rays; the protein in pearls becomes yellow under sunlight.

4.         If our pearls need cleaning, do so with warm soapy water (NEVER an ultrasonic cleaner), taking care not to get water into the drill hole as the pearl may discolor.

5.         Dry your pearls flat on an absorbent, soft (preferably lint-free) towel.

6.         Store them away from contact with metals or harder stones that might damage them.  Also, don’t store them in plastic, as it will seal out air, thereby accelerating deterioration.

7.         But don’t just leave them in a drawer – wear them at least once a month, as the mild humidity from your skin is good for them.

It’s said that if diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then pearls must be her favorite sister.  This lustrous gemstone is one of the June birthstones.  It acquired its name from the ancient Romans, who wore elongated pearls as ear pendants that they called pirla.  The pearl is an organic gem grown within oysters and a few other mollusks.  Most of the pearls we use in our designs are freshwater pearls.  We do carry saltwater pearls; if you are interested in our collection of saltwater pearls please contact us by phone or e-mail.