Care of Pearls

Care of Pearls

Unlike of any other gems, Pearls are organic gems and need some special care. A pearl's surface is very soft, so it is easily damaged. Special care is required while storing pearls.
• Store your pearl jewelry in a silk bag, velvet-lined box or pearl folder with two strands that snaps to hold the strand in place.
• Never store pearl jewelry in a plastic bag because some plastic emits chemicals that deteriorate pearls.
• Dry conditions may dry out pearls and may cause fracture on surface.
• Don’t store pearl jewelry with your metal jewelry. Metal jewelry can be scratch pearls easily.
• Never put pearls on top of a fireplace, television, or radiator as heat can discolor pearls and often turn pearls brown.
• Pearl strands should be stored flat rather than hanging so the thread won't stretch out permanently.
• Don’t touch pearls with spices on fingers.
• After wearing pearls just wipe them gently with a soft cloth. This will prevent dirt from accumulating. You can use olive oil on the cloth to maintain their luster.
• You can use special pearl cleaners. Some cleansers can damage pearls. Do not use ammonia-based cleansers.
• If pearls are old and the luster is dulling, then wipe them with a soft damp cloth dipped in a very dilute soap solution.
• Pearls will last longer if they are restrung every year if you wear them everyday. Restring them only with a pure silk thread or nylon necklace cord. Yarn like cottons may break.
• String should be knotted in between every pearl so they won’t break or get scratched due to rubbing against each other.
• Wear pearls after applying cosmetics, hair spray and perfume as their chemicals may diorite pearls.
• Do not wear pearls while showering or swimming.
• Never clean pearls with ultrasonic or steam cleaners.