Pearls

Pearl jewelry is something to keep, use, and cherish for a long time.  The pearls in necklaces and bracelets can retain their iridescence and luster if you take good care of the pearls.  Please remember that pearls are formed from once-living cells, and inside a shell which is quite wet.  Also remember that nacre is primarily calcium carbonate and therefore slightly basic or alkaline.  Pearls are quite delicate and as a general rule, pearls should be put on last and removed first.  Here are a few tips to help you take good care of your pearls:

· Pearls are relatively soft, and can be easily scratched by harder materials like metals and gemstones.  Store pearls separately from other jewelry. 

· Do not wear pearl necklaces or other pearl jewelry when swimming because the chlorine in the water will attack the nacre.

· Please remove pearl rings and bracelets before washing dishes.  Dishwashing soap will attack the pearl surface.

· Pearls may dry in non-humid environments.  Therefore, try to store pearls in slightly moist linen.  Please remember that the moisture may however, cause the silk string to deteriorate faster.

· Pearls should be kept away from sprays such as insect repellant, perfumes, etc.  If you must wear them, then use the spray first and then put on the pearls.

· You can clean your pearl jewelry gently using water with additives and a soft cloth.

· Keep pearls away from acids and acidic environments.  Pearls may also deteriorate if exposed to acids on the human skin.  So pearls in a necklace that are in constant contact with the back of the neck may need to be replaced periodically.

· Never use grainy or abrasive cloth, or brushes to clean pearls.

· The silk thread used to string pearls will deteriorate with time.  So pearls should be periodically re-strung to prevent breakage.

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