How should I care for my pearls?

Pearls are more fragile and delicate than any other gemstone or metal, they need special care to ensure they will remain clean, bright and lustrous for years to come.
There are some elements that may cause harm to your pearls such as cosmetics, perfume, moisturisers and hair spray. Even acids present in the body oils and perspiration may have a damaging effect, however to ensure you get the best use of your pearls here are a few suggestions to preserve their beauty.

• Main Rule is ‘Last on, first off’.
• Pearls must be kept totally separate from hard or sharp objects that could scratch them. They are best to be stored in a soft cloth bag or a separately lined segment of a jewellery box.
• If choosing a box for example a white strand, keep in a white box not red, as over time they will absorb the colour red.
• Apply makeup and hair products before you put your pearls on, and avoid contact with deodorant, sunscreen and chlorinated water, which can dull their lustre over time causing spots & blotches. It is also best not to wear perfume where you intend to wear your pearls.
• If pearls are worn regularly cosmetics and body oils can damage the silk or nylon thread the pearls are strung on. Therefore, it is best to have them re-strung every year by your local jeweller to avoid breakage.
• Always take off your pearl rings before applying hand creams and soaps.
• Never use commercial jewellery cleaners unless it is specifically made for pearls.
• Never use ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
• Any use of steam or hot water is to be avoided. The combination can be very damaging to the pearl.
• Although pearls can be worn and enjoyed every day, it is advisable not to swim, shower or play sport whilst wearing them.
• Every now and then, wipe your pearls with a soft damp cloth. There is no need for detergents, alcohol or other cleaning solutions. Your pearls will respond naturally to a gentle chemical – free clean.
• Ever wondered why pearls are knotted in between? This is in case the silk or nylon threads were to break the pearls would not go rolling across the floor. It also helps in separating the pearls slightly to prevent them from scratching against each other and becoming damaged.