Pearls are highly treasured gems and require proper care in order
to ensure a beauty and luster to last a lifetime! Whether
you purchase these gems from National
Pearl or from your
own trusted jewelry retailer, we hope to provide you with
special tips for preserving and caring for your precious
pearls.
Storage: As pearls are a relatively soft
gem (2.5-4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale) Pearls are best
stored separate from other jewelry types such as metallic
chains or diamonds. If stored together with other jewelry
types, there is significant risk that the pearl nacre could
be marred due to rough surface contacts. This can be avoided
by storing your pearls in a separate jewelry box, soft
bag or satin pouch. Pearls can also be sensitive to long
periods of heat, resulting in drying and discoloring of
the natural nacre. Therefore, never store your pearls in
locations such as safety deposit boxes etc.
Harmful Chemicals: Natural pearl nacre
consists primarily of calcium carbonate which is quite
sensitive to various types of acids. While wearing your
pearls, be aware of typical harmful chemicals that your
pearls may commonly be exposed to. They include: vinegar
(salad dressing), alcohol, ammonia, hair spray, bleach,
perfume, chlorinated water and a variety of cosmetics.
As such it is best to apply cosmetics prior to putting
on pearl jewelry. Perspiration is mildly acidic. As such
we suggest using a dry or damp cloth to wipe down your
pearls before putting them
away for storage.
Cleaning: If harmful chemicals have come
in contact with your pearls, it is appropriate to clean
the pearls with water and a very light detergent such as
baby soap. Ensure to rinse clean and wipe with dry or moist
towel after cleaning. While the pearls are still wet, be
sure not to wear them as wet silk strings are more likely
to stretch and weaken. Also, the wet silk string will easily
attract dirt which is quite difficult to remove. |
