Hello Bling Lovers,
My New Year’s resolution is to learn more about vintage and antique jewelry. I want to know the designers, how to clean my jewelry, photograph jewelry, repair jewelry and how to price jewelry for sale. Other collectors have been generous in sharing knowledge with me and I appreciate it. My local jeweler has been extremely helpful in helping me effectively clean old silver. I have even read about removing foil from stones in order to be able to use them for repairs on pieces that use unfoiled rhinestones. Too wonderful.
Here is the method I read about. I have not tried it myself, yet. Submerge the stone in a mixture of salt and vinegar. They did not give proportions but said to use a lot of salt. The microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Let the stone set for another 2 hours. The foil should rub off at this point. If not microwave again and continue to soak.
And now I am working with buttons because a collector is interested in making buttons bracelets. I have too old button bracelets and lots of vintage buttons. I have to go locate the button bracelet. Actually, I think I have two. If anyone is interested. Go to berniesvintage.com and contact me. Bernie
Bernie's Vintage Blog 