Cloud Sleeves Green Jade Butterfly Hairpin

The name 云袜, "cloud sleeves," is a poetic image of flowing silk robes drifting like cloud, a picture of grace and lightness. This is a chai (钗), a two-pronged hairpin that holds an updo securely. A butterfly crowns it, worked in bright palace enamel around a cabochon of natural green jade (碧玉), with small pearls set among the wings.

Key Features

• Enamel butterfly (蝴蝶). Open wings worked in bright palace enamel over gold, a classical emblem of love and joy.
• Green jade heart (碧玉). A cabochon of natural green jade sits at the centre, prized for its rich, spinach-green colour and soft lustre.
• Pearl detail. Small pearls are set among the wings, catching the light as you move.
• Two-prong design. The twin prongs hold a coiled updo more securely than a single pin, and sit comfortably against the head.
• Thickened 18K gold plating. A generous plating layer gives a deep, even lustre and holds the fine detail through wear.

Materials & Details

• Thickened 18K gold plating
• Natural green jade (碧玉) cabochon
• Pearl accents
• Hand-applied enamel butterfly
• Approximately 120 mm long and 31 mm wide
• Natural green jade varies in tone and marking from piece to piece, so no two are exactly alike. These are nature's hallmarks.

Care

Keep away from water, perfume, and prolonged sunlight. Store in a soft pouch or jewellery box when not in use. Wipe gently with a dry cloth after wear. The enamel is delicate and the pearls are soft, so avoid knocks against hard surfaces and let perfume settle before wearing.