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Care and Handling of Pearls

By: Beth Schmitz
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:42:15
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The Pearl is a beautiful and durable gem when a few simple guidelines are followed. Clean them gently; examine regularly for damage and excessive wear; and make them a staple in your daily wardrobe. With the variety of pearl colors, pearl shapes and pearl jewelry designs, the days of simple pearl strands worn only to Church and Court are long past. Pearls are simply too much fun!

Unlike most jewelry gems, the Pearl is an organic gem meaning it comes from Nature. Nature created pearls before the invention of harsh chemicals such as sunscreen, makeup, perfume and hairspray.

Your pearls are the last thing you put on. At the end of the day, your pearls are the first thing you take off.
Always wipe your pearls with a soft cotton cloth after wearing them to remove any makeup and chemicals they may have come in contact with. This will prolong the time between cleanings and reduce the need the restring due dinginess.

The worst mistake women make with their pearls is to store them in dark, dry safety-deposit boxes. If you must store them this way, remove your pearls periodically so they can breathe -- literally. You pearls will dry out. The nacre (the skin of the pearl) will lose its luster (shine) and may develop tiny cracks. By exposing your pearls every few months to the natrual atmosphere for several days, you can help prevent this drying. The best way to store your pearls is in a soft cloth bag in your jewelry box. Never use anything air-tight like plastic or safe-deposit boxes unless humidity control can be introduced.

At Least Once a Year…

Closely examine your strand of pearls from end to end.

  • Is the knotting string still tight? Are individual pearls loose between the knots? Are there any signs of fraying?
    It might be time to have the strand re-knotted. A necklace that is worn frequently can be expected to require re-knotted every year. Your local jeweler will be able to provide this service for you. Think about replacing the clasp for an updated look!

  • Is the string looking dingy?
    This is normal wear from makeup and body oils. Clean your pearls as you would a newborn infant. In warm water using pure soap such as a bar of Ivory or French-milled soap, gently swirl your pearls without stretching the strand. Rinse the pearls the same way. Lay the strand on a moistened cotton towel to dry, again taking care not to stretch the strand. When the towel is dry, the strand will be dry.


  • Do not clean your pearls with detergent, or ammonia!
    This will leave your pearls pock-marked. Do not clean your pearls in an ultrasonic - this will destroy your pearls. Do not scrub your pearls with anything abrasive, not even a soft toothbrush - these can mar the soft nacre surface.


  • You love your pearls but would love a new look.
    Think about replacing the old clasp with a new clasp.

Pearls are Mother Nature's gift to all who value perfection. With proper care, your pearls will give you years of exquisite pleasure and a legacy for future generations. And don't you deserve the best?


Copyright © 2005 Wolf Mountain Group, LLC, All Rights Reserved.

Beth Schmitz, CEO Avant Pearl, GIA Pearls Graduate

Ms. Schmitz has more than 20 years in business and more than 6 years specific to the Jewelry Industry. She holds degrees from Harvard and University of TX at Austin. Her online boutique, http://www.AvantPearl.com features high end pearl jewelry from leading designers, limited-edition manufacturers and skilled craftsmen throughout the world.

Article source: Expert Articles

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