laura
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Posts: 177
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Post by laura on Nov 23, 2011 7:35:44 GMT -5
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Post by Tela on Nov 23, 2011 7:41:59 GMT -5
When I started with LOS, I did some research and decided on the gel because it lasts so long. I bought a small jar over a year ago and I have 1/4 left. I LOVE it! The only thing I would say is-- make sure you stir it very, very well. The "active ingredients" sit on the bottom. Also, you only need a very small amount to work.
I have been told that the lump kind loses potency real quick and it just seems like a pain to work with.
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laura
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Posts: 177
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Post by laura on Nov 23, 2011 7:46:56 GMT -5
Thanks, Tela. I started with eggs, but the process just takes forever.. and I kinda hate to waste food too..
Ok, so the lumps are off the list.
Any word about the concentrated drops?
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Post by Tela on Nov 23, 2011 7:51:41 GMT -5
I haven't used the drops or heard anything about them. I'm going to continue with the gel.
I did eggs first, too, and yes, it's a pain and a waste.
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kay
New Member
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Post by kay on Nov 23, 2011 16:44:05 GMT -5
I have also used the gel and been very happy with the results. It is far more shelf stable than the lumps.
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Vicky
New Member
Jama 3yr old Scottish Fold X Ragdoll - that's my boy!
Posts: 25
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Post by Vicky on Nov 24, 2011 2:08:17 GMT -5
I can buy LOS but it costs more and I think I need a special permit to import it, much too hard for me. Anyway, my metal jewellery Lecturer from our local Technical College pointed me in the direction of an alternative and I have used it and found it to be very effective and easily available at a very reasonable cost. It is Lime Sulfur - I buy mine at my local hardware/gardening store. It is used to treat fungal diseases and pests on fruit trees, tomatoes, grapes and roses. It comes as a 500ml liquid concentrate and has 200g/L Sulfur (the smelly part of LOS) it costs me about AU$10, where the LOS is closer to AU$25 for 2fl oz of XL Gel. I find that 2 - 3 drops of the liquid in about 150ml of water allows me reasonable control of producing the patina darkness I want with repeated immersions of the jewellery. NOTE: I used about a teaspoon to 150ml the first time I used it and my copper was literally, instantly black  it did polish up ok though  You still need to read (AND FOLLOW) the instructions for use, ie gloves, safety glasses, well ventilated area etc and the solution should NOT be heated (I haven't found it necessary) NOR should you add acid it to - the chemical reation with both heat and acid can produce hydrogen sulphide gas, which is toxic, flammable, explosive - or so I've sound out from the net. But I would like to point out that the Material Data Sheets I've been able to find for both LOS and Lime Sulfur are virtually identical including the info about the use of heat and acid. Chers Vicky  |
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Post by Tela on Nov 25, 2011 7:53:15 GMT -5
Hey, Vicky- that is really interesting! Thanks for such a great response. I have always heard that LOS is totally safe. I've heard it recommended as a skin conditioner and plant food. I don't think there are shipping restrictions in the US, either. Now, you've made me wonder. I mix my gel with hot water sometimes. I hope it isn't hot enough to create a bad gas- other than rotten egg gas, I mean.  |
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Kate
Full Member
Posts: 109
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Post by Kate on Nov 25, 2011 8:03:01 GMT -5
I use the LOS gel too. I tried both the lumps and the gel and like the gel much better. Tela - I've always just automatically heated the water. Next time, I'll try it right out of the faucet! I do know I wouldn't try it as a skin conditioner. Is that a way to get a quick tan? lol
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Post by Renate on Nov 26, 2011 15:31:17 GMT -5
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Post by glenda on Nov 29, 2011 1:33:22 GMT -5
Hey Laura,
I may be too late on this one but I have just bought the drops I will have a play later and let you know the outcome!!
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laura
Full Member
Posts: 177
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Post by laura on Dec 6, 2011 5:05:50 GMT -5
Thanks for replies!
Vicky - that's very interesting info! I'm just not sure I'm ready to do experiments yet (having in mind that I have to translate and find matching stuff in the local shops). But I'll check what's available here next time I'm passing by the gardening section.
Glenda - no, not late!! I'm slow and had a million of other things on my mind lately.. Please post what you think of the drops if you've tried them already!
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laura
Full Member
Posts: 177
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Post by laura on Feb 3, 2012 5:40:45 GMT -5
Glenda is MIA... ? I've ordered the drops too, received them yesterday. At this point I can recommend the seller for providing excellent customer service The first package he sent me got lost in post and he solved the issue real quick and without any problems. So... as soon as I'm done with this virus that's keeping me in bed since yesterday, I'm gonna try some aroma therapy with the LOS Any tips for the first time user? |
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Post by Tela on Feb 3, 2012 8:50:58 GMT -5
Hey, Laura- I missed you Hope you feel better soon. I haven't used the drops, so I can't help with that. I'm betting it is good to have your water and your piece warm when you use it, though. |
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laura
Full Member
Posts: 177
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Post by laura on Feb 3, 2012 9:07:32 GMT -5
Thanks, Tela I think I'm feeling better already. Just cannot lay still, so at the moment I'm in the kitchen doing the alchemy. Boring. Having a somewhat stuffed nose helps I think, but the stuff is not nearly as smelly as I expected. Actually, the rubber gloves stink more and nastier. And it definitely stinks much worse when someone farts in a closed space.. like the elevator. I love how clean the process is - that LOS concentrate bottle comes with a built in dropper, so it's very easy to put that in to water and to control how many drops go in. And no additional tools are needed. |
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Post by Tela on Feb 3, 2012 9:34:35 GMT -5
;D LOL!!!! Farting in the elevator- the WORST! My favorite tool for LOS is a popsickle stick. |
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it did polish up ok though 
