Greenlandic Stones in Jewellery – Setting, Wear and Care
Greenlandic stones are sold as cabochons, polished pieces, raw specimens, and finished jewellery. Here you can see our finished jewellery and read about the practical considerations determining stone durability: hardness, setting type, adhesive choice, cleaning, and storage.
From stone to finished jewellery
Facts, Folklore and Tradition: We distinguish between documented geology, local folklore, and modern spiritual interpretations.
Fact-based Reference Knowledge: Origin, mineralogy, colour, and hardness compiled in one place – written for jewellery makers and collectors.
Greenlandic Stones in Stock: We sell Tugtupit, Nuummite, Kakortokite, Greenlandic rubies, and finished jewellery online and in our shop at Nybrovej 83 in Gentofte.
Choose a setting over drilling
Soft and layered stones should not be drilled by hand – the risk of splitting the material is real. Instead, use a setting that holds the stone mechanically: a bezel setting with a crimped edge, a claw setting, or a pre-made cabochon frame into which the stone is glued.
If you are measuring a cabochon, measure both the diameter and height. A high cabochon in a frame that is too shallow will be unstable, no matter how good the adhesive.
Secure adhesion
- Degrease both the stone and setting – for example, with rubbing alcohol – and allow them to dry completely.
- Use a two-part epoxy or an adhesive specifically for metal and stone, not standard craft glue.
- Apply a thin, even layer; excess glue that is squeezed out is difficult to remove from porous stone.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for the full number of hours specified by the manufacturer before wearing the jewellery.
Cleaning and Storage
Wipe the stone with a soft, slightly damp cloth and allow it to dry. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, soap, perfume, and hairspray – porous and fractured stones can absorb liquid, and fillings may loosen.
Store stones individually in soft pouches or compartmentalised boxes so that harder stones do not scratch softer ones. Tugtupite reacts to light, but the effect is reversible and does not damage the stone.
How to Honestly Describe the Stone
If you sell jewellery with rare stones, only write what you can confidently state: stone type, origin if known, dimensions, and whether the stone has been treated. Spiritual symbolism can be described as belief or tradition, but never as a documented health or healing effect.
FAQ
Can you drill tugtupite or kakortokite?
It is not recommended without experience and correct equipment. The material is soft or layered and can cleave. Instead, use a setting or a glued cabochon frame.
What adhesive should I use for a cabochon?
A two-part epoxy or an adhesive specifically for metal and stone. Degrease both parts first, use a thin layer, and allow the adhesive to fully cure before wearing the jewellery.
Can Greenlandic stones be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner?
No. Ultrasound and steam can expand existing fractures and loosen fillings. Instead, wipe the stone with a soft, slightly damp cloth.
Does Tomato sell cabochon settings?
Yes. We stock jewellery findings in sterling silver, stainless steel, and brass, as well as adhesives and tools for setting cabochons.