Pearls are a particularly delicate gemstone. It is important to take special care of your pearl jewelry to ensure it stays bright and beautiful for generations to come.
Timing is important when it comes to caring for your peals. Perfume, hair spray and cosmetics all contain substances that can dull the luster in your jewels. Even acids contained in body oils and perspiration can work to damage your jewel in the same way. Your pearls will stay cleaner if you put them on last, after applying lotion, makeup and sprays. Making sure that your pearls are the first pieces you remove at the end of the day will also protect them from harm.
Other factors to consider include when to wear your pearls. Their soft nature means it is difficult for them to withstand frequent bumps and scratches, making them less than ideal to wear during chores or heavy lifting. It’s also important to remove your pearls prior to swimming, as chlorine will damage their luster.
After removing your pearls for the day, it is recommended that you wipe them with a soft, lint free cloth, either dry or dampened. Dirty pearls may also be washed with a mild soap and water solution. Mixtures that contain ammonia or other powerful detergents should never be used, for they may degrade the jewelry. Likewise, steam and ultrasonic cleaners are too aggressive for pearls. If your jewels become wet during the cleaning process, allow them the chance to air dry before storing them away.
Keep your pearls separated from other jewelry to prevent scratching. Pearls are best kept in a soft cloth bag or other non-abrasive materials. Try to avoid placing these jewels in plastic bags or cotton wool, which may release a chemical which can damage a pearl’s shine. It’s also a good idea to place your pearls in an area that isn’t too hot or dry, for a certain amount of humidity helps to keep a pearl’s surface pristine.
Your fine pearl necklaces should be restrung from time to time to make sure that the silk or nylon thread holding them is sound. Make sure that the string is knotted between each pearl, to reduce abrasions between one pearl and the other, and to prevent all of your pearls from falling off should the cord break.
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