Is Metaphora's glass special?
There are two general types of glass and both are highly specialized. One type is in the industrial category and the other is in the art glass category. Industrial types of glass are aimed towards their function in a utility sense i.e., Windows for viewing, bottles for drinking or storing and shields for protective barriers. Art type glass is refined for color and compatibility in order to provide itself as an art medium in which innumerable works can be created from raw materials.
How long can this glass jewelry or art last?
Your glass piece can last a great many generations and can be passed along over many lifetimes. Left as it is when purchased your piece will essentially never lose its color or shine.
What do I use to clean the piece itself?
Mixing 90% Isopropyl alcohol in warm water at a ratio of 1:4 is safe way to clean the glass without risk of damage to the Sterling silver.
What is the best way to polish the silver findings?
Isopropyl alcohol and warm water at a ratio of 1:4. Isopropyl alcohol used in this fashion is harmless to your piece. You should not remove the findings from your piece to clean them as they are not designed to be removed.
If you need to clean deeper tarnish from the silver on your piece, feel free to use a silver polish carefully. Keep in mind that silver polish sometimes has a fine grit that can be abrasive and that certain chemicals may dull glass if left to sit for extended periods of time. If you find the need for polish, wash the piece immediately afterwards with warm water and then perform a final cleaning with the Isopropyl and water. A clean lint free cotton cloth is the best material to use for this task.
How can I tell the difference between the pure silk satin provided as a sash and other materials?
Pure silk is an organic material derived from the natural fibers provided by the silk worm. Commonly Antheraea sp. are used for textile production. Pure untreated Silk, as an organic product will burn but not melt and when it does so, there will be a scent of charred hair. Silk is quite strong comparatively and will tend to hold a much better knot than other more general materials such as nylon or polyester.
How is this glass colored?
The glass we purchase in raw sheet form for use in our pieces is colored with both common and exotic metal oxides ranging from Cobalt and Manganese to Gold and Eribium. These colorants are added during a highly refined manufacturing process in which specialized equipment and dedicated artisans create what is known as “Art glass”. Other reactive types of glass utilize Copper and Sulfur.
Does the glass scratch or damage easily?
The glass does not scratch easily, although the mirror like finish does make smaller blemishes and fine scratches visible upon close inspection. Additionally, all pieces are annealed for strength and are much more durable than glass that has not been through this treatment.
The piece has worn and scratched a bit. Can it be refinished?
Yes, many of the pieces can be fully refinished and mounted with new findings. Certain pieces with different surface reactions used during the creation of the piece are inhibitive of refinishing techniques however. Feel free to contact us about your specific piece and its condition should you want any refinishing services.
