Caring for your Pearls

Pearls are soft and can be easily abraded or scratched, but with a little love and care, pearls are a beautiful addition to your everyday wardrobe. Pearls are formed from oysters or mussels that live in water and actually benefit from being worn as they need some moisture to avoid drying out and cracking.

To keep your pearls looking their best for years to come, follow these simple tips:

1.      Never clean pearls with a steam or ultrasonic cleaner.

2.      Avoid pearls making contact with harsh chemicals or acids, such as cleaning agents or cosmetics.  You may love your favorite perfume, but your pearls do not.  Rule of Thumb:  Pearls are the last item on and the first item off.   

3.      Wipe pearls with a clean, soft cloth after every wear. 

4.      For a deep clean, mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap.  Use a clean, soft cloth to apply the solution to the pearls.  If your pearls are knotted on silk cord, do not submerge the entire strand in water as the moisture will weaken the silk.  Lay flat and allow to dry completely before storing or wearing.

5.      Have a jeweler perform a thorough cleaning and inspection once a year.  Silk knotted strands will need to be restrung from time to time.  If you wear your pearls weekly, have them restrung at least annually.