Cloud Tresses Jade Blossom Hairpin

The name 云鬓花颜, "cloud tresses and flower face," comes from classical Chinese poetry as an image of graceful beauty, a woman with hair like drifting cloud and a face like a blossom. This is a buyao (步摇), a hair ornament made to sway gently with the wearer's steps. An enamel blossom crowns the pin, and a natural Hetian jade drop trembles below on a fine chain.

Key Features

• Enamel blossom. A layered flower worked in soft enamel over gold, with a small butterfly alighting at its side. Choose the vermilion red or the kingfisher green colourway.
• Swaying jade drop (步摇). A teardrop of natural Hetian jade hangs on a fine chain and moves as you walk, the defining charm of a buyao.
• Hetian jade (和田玉). The drop is prized for its soft, translucent warmth and gentle, oily lustre.
• Thickened 18K gold plating. A generous plating layer gives a deep, even lustre and holds the fine detail through wear.
• A single elegant pin. At about 139 mm, long enough to hold and dress an updo, with cheongsam, hanfu, or modern dress.

Materials & Details

• Thickened 18K gold plating
• Natural Hetian jade (和田玉) drop, approximately 15 mm long and 9 mm wide
• Hand-applied enamel blossom and butterfly, in vermilion red or kingfisher green
• Total length approximately 139 mm
• Natural jade varies in tone and translucency 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, so avoid knocks against hard surfaces.