For jewellery, precious metals such as gold or silver are of course the most important components, yet very often other materials are also involved in the production of high-quality and visually attractive pieces of jewellery. Caoutchouc is a good example of this, as it can be used to make exclusive, natural and modern ornamental pieces. The word caoutchouc is a compound of the words cao, meaning tree, and ochu, meaning tear. Caoutchouc is therefore the tear of the tree and has been known for more than 3000 years. Chemically, the material is an elastic polymer that is used in the production of rubber, by way of vulcanisation. The basis of all naturally derived caoutchouc is the caoutchouc tree, from which around 90% of all natural caoutchouc is extracted. The remaining 10% is distributed among other tree species such as the balat tree, the mush apple tree or the guayule plant. Since these are always natural products, other plants also produce different properties of the final caoutchouc product. If it is not obtained naturally, it is produced petrochemically. This method covers 60% of the world's demand today. For the jewellery industry, caoutchouc is particularly interesting for the production of bracelets and necklaces, as it is a robust and practical basic material.
Characteristics of caoutchouc
For the jewellery industry, caoutchouc is particularly interesting for the production of bracelets and necklaces, as it is a robust and practical basic material. Decisive for the durability of the item are the different conditions under which it is worn.
Damaging environmental influences as well as prolonged exposure to sunlight, salt water or similar often lead to premature wear of the item. Therefore, jewellery made of caoutchouc should not come into contact with chemicals, cosmetics, etc.
It is best to clean caoutchouc jewellery under lukewarm running water and then dry it well.