Pearl Jewelry Care
Genuine pearls are much more delicate than other jewelry. Pearls with thicker nacre, such as natural pearls, keshi pearls and some freshwater pearls (those without a bead nucleus), are slightly more durable, however all pearls require a extra "TLC" to keep their characteristic luster and shine in top condition!
Here are the "do's" and "donts" of caring for your pearls:
DO: Put on your pearls last - AFTER you have applied any make-up, hand cremes, body lotions and perfume. This will help you avoid getting these substances on your jewelry.
DON'T: Use ultrasonic cleaners or jewelry cleaning solutions containing ammonia or harsh chemicals to clean your pearls. Avoid any kind of cleaner which isn't labelled as safe for pearls.
DO: Wipe your pearls with a soft, non-abrasive, damp (not wet!) cloth after wearing. Make sure they are completely dry before storing them.
DO: Wipe your pearls immediately with a soft, non-abrasive cloth if you spill anything acidic or chemical-based on them, including fruit juice, detergents, vinegar or household chemicals. The cloth can be damp, but not wet.
DO: Clean your pearls with a mild soap and water solution, but only if they are visibly dirty as exposure to water can damage the cord. Make sure they are completely dry before putting them away.
DON'T: Throw pearl jewelry carelessly into your purse or a dresser drawer. If you must put it in your purse for some reason, at least wrap it in soft cloth or a tissue first.
DO: Store your pearls in a soft, lint-free bag or in a separate compartment of your jewelry box. Rubbing against other pieces of jewelry can cause damage and wear.
DON'T: Wear pearls while bathing. Avoid getting them wet, as this will hasten wear of the string.
DO: Have pearl necklaces and bracelets professionally cleaned and restrung often - over time the cord used for stringing can become worn and damaged. If you wear them frequently, you should have them restrung once a year.
DON'T: Leave your pearls in direct sunlight or expose them to high temperatures.
DON'T: Keep pearls in a bank safe deposit box for long periods of time. This can cause dehydration, which will affect the appearance of the pearls.
DON'T: Wear your pearls during activities which can expose them to risks such as contact with sharp or hard objects.
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