[Jewelry making - Article 01350] - Re: [Orchid] Storage in safety deposit boxes

[The Doctor]

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> >         Yes, the bank is climate-controlled, in a way. But air
> >     conditioning most certainly does de-humidify the air. The answer to
> >     your question is yes, long-term storage in a safe deposit box can
> >     dry out her jewelry. Any long-term storage in air conditioning will
> >     do so.

>     What does one do to prevent this?  That means storage anywhere will
>     cause this to happen.

    Perhaps I should clarify my original statement with some cloudy
    issues concerning opal and opal storage. Many opal cutters believe
    that once stable opal has been polished, it is unlikely to crack or
    craze no matter what the environment (note the word "stable").
    Others believe that opal can dehydrate and perform this antic at any
    time, no matter how well polished. Most agree that dehydrated rough
    and polished opal can "rehydrate" by absorbing water and recommend
    that any opal, whether rough or finished should be kept hermetically
    sealed in water for long term storage. 

    It's very difficult to prove or disprove any of the above, but one
    thing is certain, at least to me. Thermal shock can completely ruin
    an opal, as well as many other gemstones (emerald comes to mind).
    Storing any opal material in water most definitely reduces the
    effect of thermal shock. I store all of my finished pieces and most
    of my rough that way. 

    Also, the original post asked only if their friend's jewelry will
    dry out, never mentioning opal in particular. I cited opal because
    of the myriad "horror stories" that so many have about the "Queen of
    Gemstones" and safe deposit boxes. I'll restate my original intent:
    "Yes, long-term storage in a safe deposit box can dry out her
    jewelry." 

James in SoFl 

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