Nothing shows off a lovely lady's smile like a glistening strand of pearls. These natural wonders are also popular for earrings, bracelets, brooches and more.

 From a bride's best adornment to an everyday accent, pearls are a special staple in many women's wardrobes. After all, a pretty set of pearls can go with nearly any outfit!

What are pearls?

Pearls are organic compounds, unlike gemstones, such as diamonds, emeralds and rubies. Genuine pearls are produced inside oysters. Basically, a grain of sand becomes trapped inside the oyster shell, and layers of nacre form around it. Eventually, a precious pearl is created.

This treasured item, valued for its purity and shimmer, has long been popular for jewelry and other adornments.

 

 

Today, cultured pearls are made by planting seeds inside oyster shells to facilitate the process. Also, many simulated pearls (some made from mother-of-pearl) and man-made imitations are also available.

The following instructions pertain to genuine and cultured pearls. Imitation pearls may require separate steps, as their durability may be somewhat questionable.

Preserve your pearls!
First and foremost, pearls are meant to be worn. In fact, as long as you wear them gently, your pearls will actually retain their lovely luster much longer, if you wear them. They can become dull with long-term storage in a dark box.

Avoid wearing your pearls to bed. Give your precious pearls a rest while you are sleeping.
Also, do not wear a pearl necklace with metallic chains or other neckwear. Such items can easily become entangled, damaging your pearls or breaking the strand.

 

Do not put on your pearls before applying antiperspirants, cosmetics, creams, fragrances, hairsprays or lotions. It's better to clip on your pearls as a finishing touch!

If you wear your pearls while you eat, make every effort to prevent your pearls from coming in contact with foods, beverages, or condiments. Acidic foods, in particular, can harm the luster of your pearls.

Wipe your pearls gently with a soft cloth before storing them. If pearls are dusty or linty, dampen the cloth first. Be sure pearls are fully dried before stowing them!

Store your pearls in a soft cloth sack or lined box, apart from other accessories. Chamois, flannel, velvet, or velveteen are excellent choices. Pearls can scratch easily, so you need to protect them.
Remove your pearls for bathing, swimming, lounging in a sauna, stepping into a whirlpool, undergoing beauty treatments or when entering other areas where water or chemicals may harm them.

Have your pearl necklaces restrung, if beads begin to separate. Generally, pearls may be strung on sturdy materials, such as fishing line or dental floss, with a knot placed after each bead. If you're not sure, ask a jeweler to inspect the condition of the string. Professional restringing is the best bet.

 

Restore soiled pearls
You can clean your pearls with warm soapy water. Dry them gently, but thoroughly, with a soft cloth. Lay them flat on a clean (light-colored) towel to dry. Flip the strand over periodically while drying.

If your pearls are stained or soiled, you may need to consult a professional jeweler to restore them to their original beauty.

If you take excellent care of your prized pearls, you will enjoy them for a lifetime. Your lovely pearls will serve you well forever.