Pearls are an investment. As such, proper care should be used protect the luster and beauty of your pearls, while providing many years of enjoyment. Below are a few tips to help you care for your pearls.

Store Pearls Separately

Pearls are much softer than the majority of gemstones and precious metals. If stored with other jewelry, they can become easily scratched or damaged.

Store Pearls In Soft Material

Ideally, you should store your pearls in a soft cloth pouch, linen cloth, or soft lined jewelry box. These will help prevent the pearls from being scratched or damaged.

Minimize Contact With Personal Products

Personal care products, such as hairspray, makeup, and perfume, contain chemicals that can harm the pearl's surface and dull the pearl's luster. To minimize this type of contact, use personal care products first before putting on pearls.

Minimize Contact With Perspiration

Perspiration contains natural acids that can harm the pearl's surface and dull the pearl's luster. To minimize this, remove pearls before exercising or doing strenuous activity.

Clean Your Pearls After Wear

Gently wipe your pearls with a soft damp cloth after wear. This will help to remove any build-up on the pearls. Do not use anything abrasive as this may damage your pearls.

Periodically Wash Your Pearls

Periodically wash your pearls to help remove harmful build-ups. Wash your pearls in soapy water using a mild liquid soap (not a detergent). Once finished, gently rinse and place on soft towel or cloth to dry. Do not hang pearls to dry as this may stretch the silk thread.

Restring Your Pearls

To prevent breakage, you should have your pearls restrung periodically. For example, if you wear your pearls frequently, you should have them restrung annually. Pearls should be restrung with silk thread and knotted between each pearl. The knot prevents the pearls from all falling of the thread if there is a breakage, as well as prevents the pearls from chafing each other.