Most of us have a box or drawer full of different pieces of jewelry. Often this jewelry is stored in the same place - necklaces, earrings, bracelets are thrown together. But every piece deserves to be treated properly to last longer. Pearls, whether natural or cultured, are very delicate and soft compared to other gemstones. However, they can last for centuries, but proper care is necessary to keep your pearl jewelry beautiful and shiny. Here are some important tips on how to clean and care for your pearls.
How to clean pearls without damaging them?
Because of the way pearls are formed, they require special care. If your pearl's nacre is thin and fragile, it can chip easily, leaving unsightly gaps, chips, or cracks, especially if cleaned with harsh chemicals or placed in a jewelry cleaning device. In the worst case scenario, the pearl can completely dissolve, leaving you with a dull, lifeless pearl. Fake glass and plastic pearls also require special care because their coating is much thinner and more fragile than mother-of-pearl.
How often should you clean them?
Cleaning pearls is important to preserve their shine and ensure they stay in their best condition for a long time. You can easily do the cleaning yourself at home without using expensive products or equipment.
Gently clean the beads every time you use theWear jewelry. Each time you put them down, wipe them with a soft cloth to maintain the shine and remove body oil and other contaminants that may be on the surface.
Additionally, you should clean the pearls thoroughly if you feel that they look dingy. Thorough cleaning is required once a year.
Simple steps to clean the pearls
- After each wear, you should wipe the beads with a soft cloth. This will help prevent oils or other substances that may have come into contact with your jewelry throughout the day from building up.
- Only clean them with a damp cloth if necessary. If your pearls are visibly dirty, you can prepare a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap, dip a soft cleaning cloth in it, and wipe the pearls with it. Never submerge a pearl necklace or bracelet in water as this weakens the silk thread.
- Allow the beads to dry completely before storing. This also helps maintain the elasticity of the silk thread.
- To lighten yellowed beads with acetone, first clean them as usual. Then, dampen a clean cloth with acetone nail polish remover and gently wipe each bead to remove the yellow stains. Never use acetone on fake pearls to avoid unwanted damage.
- Take the pearl jewelry to a jeweler once a year. Even though you're supposed to wear your pearls often to keep them moisturized, all that body oil doesn't do the silk thread any favors. Have your jeweler check the integrity of your pearl jewelry once a year. He can also give it a thorough and safe cleaning.
Care instructions for pearl jewelry
Pearls are often inherited and are a valuable family heirloom. To ensure your pearls last long enough to achieve heirloom status, consider these care tips:
- Wear them at least half as often! Pearls were originally born in water and benefit immensely from absorbing the oils your skin naturally secretes throughout the day.
- Pearls should be the finishing touch to your outfit. Avoid applying makeup, hairspray, lotion, or perfume when wearing your pearls.
- Check your pearl necklace or bracelet regularly. If you wear your beads often, the cord may stretch or become loose. It is recommended to re-thread your pearl jewelry once a year. The beads should be tied separately. Otherwise they can rub against each other and damage the mother of pearl. In addition, if the strand breaks, the beads won't fall off and you won't lose them.
When you're ready to take off your pearl jewelry, there are a few things you should keep in mind. If you store your pearls properly, you can be sure that they will be just as beautiful next time. Keep these tips in mind.
- Do not put the pearl jewelry in a jewelry box with other gemstones. Otherwise the beads may be scratched or damaged. Also, do not let your pearl jewelry come into contact with other pieces of jewelry or drop it.
- Hanging seems like a good way to store beaded jewelry, but it weakens the material. Over time this can lead to breakages. Always store your beads flat.
- Real pearls are organic, meaning their color can change. Store the beads in a non-abrasive cloth bag or fabric-lined jewelry box to prevent yellowing. Keep the beads moist by placing a damp cloth or wet cotton balls with the beads and keep them away from heat sources.
You can also learn how to properly clean gold jewelryfind out here!
