Pearls come in different varieties, sizes and textures. They are more fragile than other jewelry pieces, which makes storing them correctly and cleaning them even trickier.

 

While most people wear cultured pearls today, even those with thicker coatings are more delicate than most other gemstones. Here are some points to keep in mind when you want to keep pearls.

 

While getting dressed, ensure that you wear your pearls last, after you're applied your makeup and sprayed perfume. This will ensure that the pearls stay clean and don't pick up any residue, which can make them change colors. Keep your pearl rings away from face creams and body lotions.

 

- To clean your pearls, take a soft, dry cloth. In case you want to use a damp cloth, let your pearls dry completely before you put them away.

 

- If you absolutely must use a solution to clean, take a mild liquid soap, dilute it with water and use it to clean pearls. Avoid using harsh solutions which have ammonia or other detergents.

 

- The cloth you use to clean pearls is also important — never use thick abrasive cloths. These will remove the nacre coating, which will strip the pearl of its shine and luster.

 

- Store your pearls in a separate box. When you keep them together with other jewelry, not only are there chances of them getting scratched, they can also lose their shine. It is best to store pearls in a soft pouch.

 

- If you have pearl necklaces, make it a habit to restring them every few years.

 

Did u know?

Pearls come in several colors including pink, black and gold. Natural pearls are found in gulfs, seas and oceans (saltwater) or in rivers and lakes (freshwater) while cultured pearls are produced when one introduces an irritant into the mollusk to create what are known as imitation pearls.