Looking for the perfect piece of jewelry to pair with any outfit? Something to dress up a nice shirt with jeans so you are neither overdressed nor under-dressed, and also be a timeless piece you can keep forever. “Pearls go on and on . . . on everything,” (Vogue, 1943)
Pearls are perfect for any occasion and perfect for spring! “Pearls don’t have the flash of diamonds (candy to material girls), but they are undeniably precious and celebrated for being so.” (BORRELLI-PERSSON, 2016)
The challenge that most people find with pearls is how to care for them. Everyone says to make sure you take care for them, but not many actually tell you how.
How to Clean Pearls
After every wear, wipe your pearls with a soft cloth.This will help prevent any buildup of oils or other substances that may have come in contact with your jewelry throughout the day.
Clean with a damp cloth only as needed. If your pearls are visibly stained, you can mix a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap, dip a soft cleaning cloth in it and wipe the pearls. Do NOT immerse a pearl necklace in water, as it will weaken the silk thread. Make sure that the string is completely dry before you wear them again.
Let them dry all the way before storing. This helps preserve the elasticity of the silk strand. Place your pearls in something with a soft lining, such as a drawstring pouch.
Take them to your jeweler once a year.While you want to wear your pearls often to keep them hydrated, all that body oil doesn’t do the silk thread any favors. We can check the integrity of your pearl bracelets and necklaces and also give them a thorough, safe cleaning.
Never clean pearls with a steam or ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Both of these methods are likely to damage the outer layer of the pearl.
| Pro Tip: “Cultured pearls should be strung with a knot between each bead to prevent loss if the strand breaks.” – Jewelers of America |
Pearl Maintenance Tips
Pearls are commonly passed down to become a treasured family heirloom. To ensure your pearls last long enough to reach heirloom status, follow these maintenance tips:
Last on, first off. Pearls should be the final touch to your outfit. Avoid applying makeup, hairspray, lotion or perfume once your pearls are on.
Store them flat. While it’s perfectly acceptable for most necklaces to be hung on a cute jewelry rack, your pearl strands should not be. Store pearl necklaces flat to prevent them from stretching.
Dedicate a space just for your pearls. Soft pearls are prone to scratches, so store them separately in fabric-lined compartments.
Wear your pearls often. Pearls do best in a moist environment, so wearing them frequently keeps them from drying out.
Pearls make the perfect addition to any outfit, no matter the occasion. So if you were afraid to add them to you collection of jewelry because you weren’t sure how to care for them, now you know! If you are ready to take the plunge into pearls or just have more questions, let us know and we will do our best to help.
(Hart, 2016); https://www.gia.edu/pearl-care-cleaning