.....and I'm pretty sure I may be permanently cross eyed. In an attempt to work on some of the things on my list from Wednesday, I started my massive jewelry repair campaign. (The light box is on hold until Monday, but it is still happening..) Due to my pack-rat/hoarder tendencies, I have managed to accumulate quite a stash of jewels in need of repair.
I'm sure it doesn't look like it, but I really did have a clean desk to begin with. (as clean as I can get anyways...) After adding the tools, some water & my tea, the vinegar, plates, tools, jewelry & donor parts boxes it got filled pretty fast. *sigh*
Here is about halfway through...
I learned that vinegar works wonders on verdigris. Just brush it on with a makeup or other small brush so you don't soak the piece and wipe it off with a kleenex or q-tip. Sometimes you have to apply it more than once. Make sure if you have a piece with foil back rhinestones or faux pearls that you don't get the vinegar on those parts. Make sure the jewelry dries completely or the verdigras will come back. That green stuff is so nasty and it can infect your other jewelry. Keep infected pieces out of your jewelry box! Usually I use E6000 for simple jewelry repairs, but that stuff is too messy for small pieces, and it stinks like no-ones business. I got some G-S Hypo Cement in the orange box. I love it, it's so much easier to use! The only gripe i have with it is that you need to put the pin back in the long applicator when not using it, and it is hard to see sometimes.
I was very productive today, but I only ended up repairing about 1/3 of what's needed. I guess I know what I'm doing tomorrow. I'm determined to get that done. I forget how time consuming repair is. I also have to go on the hunt for some clasps and hook closures. As you can see, there are going to be lots of rhinestone pieces for sale in the near future, and I'm pleased to report that red Vendome art glass & rhinestone demi parure is free of the dreaded verdigris!
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