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Quality pearls are very
durable, but proper care is necessary to keep them beautiful
and lustrous. Here are some important tips to care for your
pearls.
Pearls should be stored
away from other objects or jewelry such as diamond or
other gemstones that may scratch the pearls’ surface.
Wrap the pearls in linen, soft cloth, or place in a soft
pouch. Do NOT store pearls in an airtight package such
as a plastic bag because pearls need moisture. If the
environment is too dry, the pearls may crack. If placing
the pearls in a safety deposit box or in a hot
environment, leave a damp cloth nearby.
When pearls get dirty,
use a very soft, non-abrasive soap such as sot liquid
hand soap to clean your pearls. Gently wipe pearls with
water and soft soap, and let them air dry by putting
them on a cloth or paper towel.
Do not wear pearls when
the string is wet.
Keep pearls away from
chlorine bleach, vinegar, ammonia, hairspray, perfume,
and cosmetics. Contact with these items can affect a
pearl’s luster and color. Make sure to put pearls on
after finished spraying perfume or hairspray and putting
on makeup. Also, remove pearls before exercising to keep
them away from perspiration.
Restring pearls once a
year if worn often. Be sure to have each pearl knotted
separately, preferably with silk, so they do not rub
together and wear on the pearl nacre. If pearls are very
small, knots between each pearl may be undesirable. |
