Olive Pit Carving

How to Handle Olive Pits
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Essentials

Oil

Johnson's Baby Oil: Best to be used with Olive Pits to stay moisturized.

Brush

Boar Bristle Hair Brush: Best to be used to apply oil and polish for the purpose of "basing".

IMPORTANT

  • Be Patient

    Handling Olive pits requires patience. After receiving your new bracelet, avoid rushing to play with it. Seal it and let it rest for 3-5 days to adapt to the environment, which can prevent cracking.

  • Clean and Prepare

    Once the olive pits have adjusted to the environment, remove them from the sealed bag. Use a dry brush to clean off any dust from the surface. Then, place a drop of Johnson's baby oil on your palm, spread it evenly, and rub the pits to coat them uniformly with oil. Wipe off any excess and use a brush to clean areas your hands can't reach. Seal the pits again to allow them to absorb the oil evenly.

  • Handling

    After a day, you can take the olive pits out and begin handling them. Avoid taking them outside before they develop a patina.
Olive pits require protection from four main threats: water, wind (including air conditioning and cold drafts), dryness, and extreme sunlight. During winter and spring, especially in drier regions like northern areas, extra care is needed to prevent cracking due to insufficient maintenance.By following these steps, you can preserve your olive pit carving and ensure it remains in excellent condition.

Pushing

Place the olive pit on your forearm and slowly push it forward. Continue until your arm feels warm and slightly red. This technique can also promote blood circulation.

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Smoothing

This technique is mainly for prayer beads or bracelets. Hold one bead or pit in your hand and move it along your arm in an up-and-down motion.

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Pinching

Place the olive pit in your palm and use your thumb and another finger to press it firmly.

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Twisting

This method is also for prayer beads or bracelets. Use your thumb and index finger to hold one bead, then roll it between your fingers and repeat the motion along the entire strand.

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Rubbing

Hold the olive pit in your palm and use short, brisk rubbing motions.

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Rolling

Place the olive pit in your palm and gently roll it up and down in a smooth, steady motion.

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By practicing these techniques for about one to two months, the surface of the olive pit will develop a patina. At this stage, it’s safe to wear the bracelet outdoors, as the pits will be less prone to cracking.

Benefits of Wearing Olive Pit Bracelets

Historical and Health Significance:
In ancient times, olive pit carvings were exclusive to emperors and nobility, with common people prohibited from owning them, making them rare in folk culture. They were often regarded as protective talismans. The unique oils contained within the pits are essential nutrients that the body can absorb due to the porous structure and active, fast-diffusing nature of the oils. Regular wearing is believed to help delay aging and maintain a radiant appearance.

Enhancing the Patina:
Those who cherish olive pit accessories rarely remove them (except when bathing) and often handle them during idle moments. Over time, the pits interact with the skin’s natural oils, developing a brighter, more translucent patina. This process nurtures the natural warmth and luster of the pits, symbolizing a continuation of their life in a new form. To preserve their beauty, frequent wear and handling are encouraged, but proper care is necessary when storing them.

Protective Properties:
Olive pit carvings have long been associated with protection and good fortune. Since ancient times, they were believed to ward off evil, protect against disasters, and bring blessings of safety and harmony. Among emperors, officials, and scholars, carved olive pits were revered as spiritual objects, often considered symbols of prestige and good luck.

"People Nurture the Pit for Three Years, and the Pit Nurtures Them for Life":
A saying highlights the mutual benefits of olive pits. Natural pits are known for their unique grain patterns, sometimes referred to as “ten treasures, nine cracks” due to their natural texture. They absorb the body's natural oils and, in turn, release minerals believed to nourish the wearer. In this way, olive pits are considered even more beneficial than jade. Throughout history, beautifully carved pits have been highly valued by people of all classes, believed to balance yin and yang and promote health in remarkable ways.

Taboos for Wearing Olive Pit Bracelets

Avoid Wearing in the Bathroom:
Bathrooms are considered unclean in Buddhist culture. Remove your olive pit bracelet before entering.

Do Not Mix Left and Right Hands:
Wear the bracelet consistently on either your left or right hand but avoid switching between them casually.

Avoid Wearing at the Beach:
Do not wear your bracelet when visiting the seaside, as the environment's humidity and salt can damage it.

Do Not Handle with Dirty Hands:
Ensure your hands are clean before touching the bracelet to prevent dirt or oil from harming the surface.

Avoid Air Conditioner Vents in Winter:
Do not place the bracelet near air conditioner vents during winter. The warm air can cause the pits to crack.

Avoid Handling in Environments with Extreme Temperature Fluctuations:
Do not play with your bracelet in conditions where the temperature changes dramatically, especially winter.

Special Note for Winter:
Keeping them in close-contact pockets might seem safe, but high temperatures can cause the pits to lose moisture and crack. Handle your bracelet with care to ensure its longevity and beauty.