How to Care for Pearls and Pearl Jewelry

Here are a few tips to guide and provide years of enjoyment for the proud owner of any valuable pearl jewelry, be it cultured or natural.

1. Pearl jewelry should be kept apart from other jewelry and each piece should be kept in its own separate pouch or wrap made of silk or velvet or in boxes lined with the same to avoid scratches or other damage.

2. Avoid exposing pearls to sunlight or any direct heat for a long period of time. The outer shell will dry out, causing a change of color or the loss of luster.

3. Remove your pearl jewelry during your daily shower or bath. The same applies to swimming be it in pools or in sea water. Swimming pool water contains a variety of chemical substances and the sea may not be pollution free as you think.

4. Do not wear your pearl jewelry when you are busy with household chores. Detergents contain chloride, whiteners or other corrosive or oxidizing agents that will damadge a pearl.

5. Do not wear pearls next to your skin after using a body lotion. Cosmetics and pearls don't go well together. Deodorants, sprays, perfumes and creams all contain oily or bleaching substances.

6. Your pearl jewelry should only be added as a finishing touch to your appearance after applying your make-up and doing your hair.

7. After you have worn your pearl jewelry wipe the pearls gently with a soft tissue or cloth, dipped in alcohol. Alcohol removes the remains of sweat, dust and dirt without affecting the pearls adversely.

8. The simplest way to care for your pearl is to place it in lukewarm water for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a year. A very mild dishwashing liquid may be used, however you must rinse with clear water afterwards.

9. After washing your pearls, allow them to dry on a soft cloth for 24 hours. Room temperature is sufficient to do the job.

10. Every 2-3 years, pearls can enjoy a gentle rub with olive oil to preserve their luster.

NOTE: Natural Pearls vs. Cultured Pearls

Natural pearls are pearls formed by chance. Cultured pearls have been given a helping hand. Today, nearly all pearls are cultured. By inserting a foreign object into a mollusk, pearl farmers can induce the creation of a pearl. The same process of pearl creation then takes place. The difference is that in this case, the inducement is intentional.