How To Care For Pearls

Treat your pearls gently. They are organic gemstones that are vulnerable to acid, alkaline and dry, hot air. Although pearls are exceptionally cohesive and shock-resistant, they rank only 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, so may be scratched by contact with sharp objects or other gemstones.

~Perfume, hairspray, which contain alcohol and harmful acids, should be avoided on the areas where pearls are worn.

~Perspiration can also harm the beauty of pearls, dulling their beautiful luster. After wearing them, wipe with a damp (not wet), soft cloth or a silicon cloth.

~If make-up and perfume accumulate, a very mild non-phosphate soap may be used. Be careful not to dip pearls in water or wear them while bathing or swimming, as water can weaken the silk thread.

~Do not leave them in direct sunlight or expose them to high temperatures.

~If pearls happen to come into contact with substances such as vinegar, fruit juices or detergents, immediately wipe these substances off.

~Be sure to store your pearls in their own soft cloth bag in a compartmentalized jewelry box so that they don't come into contact with other jewelry.

~Do not store your pearl jewelry in a security box for long periods of time, since this may cause the pearls to dehydrate. Dehydrated pearls will decline, eventually becoming powdery. Never store your pearls in plastic bags or plastic boxes. Your pearls need exposure to the moisture that is present in the air.

~If you wear your pearls frequently, it's advisable to have them restrung once a year. Ask your jeweler to check them for needed restringing.

The more you wear your pearls, the more beautiful they become. Each time you wear your pearls, the outer layers of pearl nacre absorb the natural oil from your body. This interaction with your skin develops and deepens the luster and color of the pearls.