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Pearls are not rocks or crystals like other gem stones and are less durable than other precious gems. They require special care but when cared for properly they will keep their beauty and luster for a lifetime. Proper care is not difficult; it is only a matter of remembering how your pearls differ from other gems. Pearls are organic by nature, formed by living organisms.
Wear Your Pearls
Celebrate the beauty of your pearls by wearing them often. Pearls are organic just like you are and they enjoy the natural oils of your skin.
Apply Hair Spray, Cosmetics, Or Perfumes First
Pearls are sensitive to acids, dryness, humidity and chemicals. Only put your pearls on after applying hair spray, cosmetics, or perfumes. Remove your pearls before washing dishes, exercising or showering.
Keep Your Pearls Clean
After taking off your pearls, wipe them with a dry, lint-freecloth.
From time to time your pearls may need cleaning. Clean your pearls with a warm damp cloth. You can occasionally use a mild diluted liquid soap but never use vinegar, lemon juice, and ammonia or chlorine products. Be very careful to not get water into the drill hole as the pearl.
After cleaning, lay your pearls flat to dry on a clean, lint-free, and absorbent cloth.
Store Your Pearls Properly
Store your pearls in a soft pouch so they are not in continuous contact with gold or sharp gems. Always store them flat and never hang your pearls in your jewelry box (as you might with gold chains) as the silk thread your pearls are strung on will stretch.
Never store your pearls in a plastic bag. Moisture may become trapped inside and damage your pearls.
Do not store your pearls in sunlight. Excessive heat and excessive exposure to light may damage your pearls. Displaying your pearls under a spotlight (like you might see in a shop window or showcase) can be damaging.
Take your pearls in for a check-up once a year, they may need to be re-strung if your wear them more than two or three times a week.
Some Things To Avoid
- Chlorinated Water
- Heat
- Perspiration
- Hair Spray, Cosmetics, or Perfumes
- Insect Repellent
- Talcum Powder
- Ultrasonic or Steam Cleaners
- Constant, Direct Light-Sources
- Fruit Juice (and other acids)
If you follow these simple guidelines, your pearls will last you a lifetime!
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