The Ultimate Care Guide for Pearls: Dos and Don’ts

Pearl Jewelry Trends in 2024

Pearl stones are considered to be pearls of the sea which open hearts for centuries with their tender shine and eternal beauty. When compared to other gemstones, pearls are characterized by their organic nature and this gives them the beauty they have as well as coming with some level of sensitivity. 

For your Pearl stones to retain their beauty as the time you first knew their existence you will need to know how to properly take care of them. In addition to pearl care do’s and don’ts, here is your opportunity to form a bond with these fascinating gems.

The Nature of Pearls: Understanding Their Delicacy

One should take into consideration some of the insights concerning the pearls as held before providing care tips. They are not like diamonds or sapphires that are created in the mining industry but these Pearl stones are born in the middle of the sea deep down in the naturally created mollusks’ ear tissue. 

This completely natural process lends Pearl stones a certain smoothness and defines it as a material with a hardness of around 2. 5 to 4. It measures 5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. 

Their outer layer, also known as nacre – the substance responsible for the pearls’ sheen – is vulnerable and may quickly wear off if mishandled. Also, check this out: Pearl Jewelry Trends in 2024.

The Dos of Pearl Care

1. Wear Your Pearls Regularly

Jewellery, particularly Pearl stones, are things that are designed to be worn. Your body’s natural skin oils will help to prevent them from fading as can be seen on the faces of some celebrities. 

Still, it should also be noted that before placing the pearls on the skin, they should be washed, and made sure that it is not to apply any lotion or perfume as these tend to diminish the luster of Pearl stones.

2. Store Pearls Separately

As for the rest of the time which is not spent on having pearl necklaces around the neck or pearl earrings around the ears, they require proper handling. This should be done to avoid them getting in contact with other jewelry as this may cause scratches on them, a soft pouch or a lined jewelry case is recommended for storage. 

This will help to shield them from scratches which are possible since they provide a smooth surface. You should keep the same care of Aurora opal.

3. Clean Pearls Gently

When you are done using your Pearl gemstones, you have to clean them gently with a piece of cloth that has been dipped in a little water. This helps to eliminate any form of sweat, oil, or makeup that may pose a threat to the nacre. 

However, if you want to clean them more thoroughly, it is recommended that you use a solution of mild soap to avoid soaking them in water for a long time. You should also read this: Surprising Benefits of Wearing a Pearl Gemstone.

4. Restring Pearls Periodically

In case you have a pearl necklace or bracelet, maybe it is wise to take them for re-stringing every few years. The materials used for the silk or nylon thread may wear out with time and may in the process compromise the quality of Pearl gemstones if they are used often. 

This way there will be no unfortunate breaks to have when one has had a fresh re-stringing done.

5. Store Pearls in Humidity

It has been the experience that the Pearl gemstones would be more comfortable anywhere that is moist. When stored in a dry place and for some time, they may become hard and discolored; they may even turn into powder. 

To keep them moist they should be stored at slightly high humidity or a cup of water and a cloth should be placed near them.

Learn more about other gems and click on Fire Opal Vs Ethiopian Opal: Difference & Benefits

The Don’ts of Pearl Care

1. Avoid Contact with Chemicals

It is disappointing to learn that Pearl gemstones are very much affected by chemical solutions such as detergents, fragrances, hairspray, and even perspiration. These materials may destroy the nacreous layer and that causes the loss of the sheen and in some cases, the damage is permanent. 

Finally always put pearls on last after having applied your makeup or dressing and remove them first before undressing. You should do the same with Amethyst stone. 

2. Do not wear pearls in water

While Pearl gemstones are formed in water, you need to remember that they have to be removed to avoid getting wet while swimming or taking a shower or a bath. Of the numerous types of water, tap water and seawater should be avoided because they contain chlorine and salt respectively, both of which have a negative impact on the nacre – the outer layer of the pearl – and consequently distort the coloration of the pearl. 

Fresh water is also a taboo in most settings, even brief exposure will compromise the strength of the silk that is used in stringing pearls.

3. Never Use Ultrasonic Cleaners

Thus while ultrasonic cleaners might be fabulous for other harder stones they are too aggressive for pearls. He stated that the degree of vibrations can be strongly felt or even sever the nacre layer. Do not scrub pearls with soap and water because this might damage the strands and make them less attractive. 

4. DO NOT USE PLASTIC 

Plastic, for example, can give out several chemicals that when affecting the pearls, can alter the surface of the pearls. Thus, one should prefer soft cloth bags, the usage of silk pouches, or a velvet-lined box, for instance. This way your pearls are protected and the environment they are put in is also conducive to their growth.

5. Do not take Pearls near Extremes of Heat or Cold

Pearls should not be exposed to high temperatures as they respond to changes in temperatures. Temperatures below freezing may harm the nacre since it can easily crack or discolor under the effects of heat and cold. Never take out your pearls and keep them exposed to direct sunlight or heat such as atop heaters.

CONCLUSION

Maintaining pearls is not a regular practice; it has been incorporated as a way of showing respect to a stone that was crafted from the heart of the ocean and put on you. 

The bond between the wearer and his or her pearls is close and long-standing. Therefore, by practicing the dos and don’ts, let your pearls continue to possess the beauty, which they have been designed for when they were being manufactured.

Every time you put on your pearls, spend some time looking at their light sparkle, a symbol of the ocean deep and the pearls’ eternal appeal.

These gemstones are going to keep glowing in your care. You are going to carry this elegance generation after generation as has been the case with these pieces.

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