History

Marcasite Jewelry: It's history and some tips on looking after your jewelry...

Marcasite jewelry usually refers to silver jewelry inlaid with small stones made of Pyrite. Pyrite is a naturally occuring mineral found in a variety of geological formations.The most common precious metal used with Marcasite is Sterling silver. Due to the contrast between the two metallic grey shades, the combination is very striking and it gives a special vintage look to silver jewelry.

History of Marcasite jewelry

Early traces of Marcasite jewelry have been found in ancient Greece and the burial grounds of the Inca people in Latin America. Cleopatra was also reported to favour Marcasite jewelry as it was believed to havethe power to preserve her beauty. Silver jewelry decorated with Marcasite was extremely popular in 18th and 19th century Britain, reaching its peak in popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria in England in the second half of 19th century. The Queen wore some beautiful Marcasite jewelry as a substitute for her diamonds. Silver and Marcasite jewelry is once again popular with people who value luxurious and stunning designs at affordable prices.

Some tips!..

Normally when used in jewelry the marcasite stone is cut in a triangle or oval shape and has a mid grey sheen The most common method of inlaying Marcasite stones to silver jewelry is gluing them onto small holes, which is a reason why Marcasite jewelry should not come in touch with water. So remember to remove your marcasite jewelry before you put your hands in water or take a shower.

The best tip for keeping Marcasite jewelry clean and fresh looking is to wipe it with a soft cotton cloth, which can be dry or slightly damp. Steamers or ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided. As with Sterling silver jewelry in general, taking good care will make keep your Marcasite looking elegant and stylish.Your jewelry will actually improve with age as it develops a lush patina over time..

So, just a few things to remember.

  1. Store your Marcasite jewelry in a clean, dry place.
  2. Keep your silver Marcasite in a fabric-lined jewelry case, or even better in a box with compartments and dividers. If you prefer to use ordinary boxes, wrap each piece individually in special plastic pockets or soft tissue paper.
  3. Never leave Marcasite silver jewelry lying against bare wood. Wood, especially oak, contains an acid that will mar the surface of the silver. Paper and cardboard, since they are wood pulp products, have the same effect, so try to avoid using paper envelopes or small cardboard boxes.
  4. The best way to clean Marcasite jewelry is with a mild soap and water solution, after which the jewellery should be gently wiped dry with a soft non-tarnishing cloth.
  5. Don't soak Marcasite jewelry in water.
  6. Avoid steamers and ultrasonic jewelry cleaners as these may damage the Marcasite stones.
  7. Above all , enjoy wearing this chic and elegant jewelry!