Nimbus Cloud + Lightning Bolt
Nimbus Cloud + Lightning Bolt
Iridescent glass nimbus cloud and 24k gold plated lightning bolt and hardware, with 24k gold plated stainless steel stud.
May these auspicious clouds and lightning bring you luck, peace, and abundance this year, and persevere through any storms that may come your way.
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Some symbolism:
Auspicious clouds, or xiángyún (祥雲), are traditional Chinese stylized clouds decorative patterns. These cloud motifs are found everywhere in traditional Chinese artwork, as well as in carvings, decorations, furniture, textiles, architecture, and are considered one of the oldest decorative motifs in Chinese history. Clouds are considered auspicious or lucky, because (especially during agricultural pre-modern times ) clouds meant moisture and rain to water their crops, and to moisten all living things, therefore, bringing an abundant harvest and good fortune to people. Clouds are also considered an omen of peace, happiness, and Heaven. Many deities, immortals, and mythological creatures in Chinese lore are portrayed to be standing or perched on an auspicious cloud.
Artwork of Chang’e - the Moon Goddess, depicted on clouds.
Source: Ancient History Lists
Similar to clouds, thunder and lightning superstitions go back to pre-modern agrarian society in China. The presence of thunder and lightning meant storms, which meant water for their crops leading to an abundant harvest. In Chinese legend, thunder is brought on by the god Léigōng, and lightning is the work of his wife, Diànmǔ, (also known as Leizi). They are charged with using thunderbolts to strike down any sinners against the Jade Emperor. Diànmǔ helps Léigōng with his aim as he cannot see in the dark, so she uses her mirror to reflect light, providing a brief flash in the sky for Léigōng to aim (how they explained why lightning came before the sound of thunder).
Artwork of Diànmǔ and Léigōng working together to create thunder and lightning.
Source: Unknown
Gold-plated jewelry care:
To prolong the shine and longevity of your gold-plated jewelry, it’s recommended to avoid wearing when swimming (salt or chlorine water), showering, and sweating.
Cleaning your jewelry with a soft lint-free cloth every few months or once a year can help to keep its shine. (Note* Do not use a jewelry polishing cloth - these types of cloths are usually treated with a polishing agent and it can strip the gold plating, however, I highly recommend it if you have tarnishing 925 sterling silver jewelry!)
Warm water and dish soap can also be used to clean your gold-plated jewelry. Avoid anti-bacterial soaps.
Additionally, if you wear the jewelry regularly, your body oils actually help to keep the metal from tarnishing (this goes for sterling silver jewelry as well).
If you wear make up and perfume, try to apply this before putting your jewelry on - have your gold-plated jewelry be the last thing you put on before you leave, and the first thing you take off when you get home. The chemicals in perfumes and colognes can cause a reaction similar to oxidation and can potentially turn the gold plating black!
This information came from a helpful resource I found here !