Every woman can pull off wearing pearls no matter what they’re wearing – from that well-known black dress to that spectacular wedding gown. Taking good care of them will make them last for many generations to come. So if what you have are natural or cultured pieces, read on. The following are some simple tips on keeping the beauty of pearl jewelry long lasting.
From earrings, necklaces, bracelets to rings, they’re best stored inside individual soft pouches. Ideally, these should be made out of cotton, linen or silk. You may also store them in a lined jewelry box, inside their own compartments. Placing them together with other pieces out of metals or containing gemstones can scratch their delicate surface.
Harsh chemicals can dull their natural luster and even damage their surface. And some of these chemicals are often found in your perfume, hairspray, makeup and other cosmetics which you use. That’s why you should apply them first before you put on your pearl jewelry. After wearing them, wipe with a soft dry cloth to remove any residue of such products on these precious items.
There are certain types of fabrics which are rough enough to damage their fine surface. Avoid putting on pearls if you’re wearing clothes with such fabrics. Also, metal hooks, buttons, zippers and the likes on your clothes can damage your pearls. That’s why they should be the last thing you put on when dressing, and the first thing you take off when undressing.
It’s true that skin oils can make pearls more lustrous. But skin acids can cause damage to them. Wiping them is essential right after you take them off. For a more thorough cleaning, you may occasionally use a damp cloth. However, make sure you let them dry completely before putting them in a pouch or jewelry box. Never use cleaning solutions on them other than something that’s made for pearl cleaning.
Take off your jewelry before doing activities that will cause you to sweat heavily. Some of them include exercising, cleaning the home, or staying in areas that are hot and humid. The same is true with activities that will cause them to get in contact with dirt or chemicals. Before swimming, remove pearl necklaces as the silk thread can weaken with prolonged water exposure.
Still on necklaces, having them restrung by a qualified jeweler every 1-2 years is a wise move. Thread out of genuine silk should be used; but these days, nylon is an acceptable alternative. Make sure that the jeweler creates knots between every pearl. Such will keep them from rubbing against one another. Also, it will prevent every piece from falling if ever the string breaks.
A wonderful thing about the beauty of pearl jewelry is it doesn’t go out of style. Although they’re not as costly as diamonds, they’re not cheap either. Be able to hand them on to someone and let many future generations enjoy them by taking good care of your pieces.
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Great site. A lot of useful information here. I’m sending it to some friends!