The luster of pearl jewelry is enchanting. Whether it's a pearl necklace or a pair of pearl earrings, you can't help but admire a pearl's glow. To keep their timeless charm, it's important to take care of a pearl properly to ensure it lasts a lifetime.

Density of Pearl Jewelry

Diamonds, which have been compacted for eons deep within the earth, are the hardest gemstone on the planet. Pearls, on the other hand, are cultivated within the shells of mollusks. These creatures of the water produce the nacre of the pearl, the lustrous coating that gives pearl jewelry its luminosity. Unlike diamonds, pearls are soft and succumb easily to chips and scratches. It's important to keep pearl jewelry separate from other jewelry when stored in a single jewelry box.

 

Pearl Jewelry Isn't for Every Occasion

Although a simple gold wedding band will withstand the rigors involved in working with your hands, your pearl ring won't. The same holds true for your pearl necklace and earrings. Don't wear pearls when you engage in physical labor, work in the yard, or are working out at the gym. The dirt and perspiration will shorten the life of your pearls, damaging their soft coating and causing discoloration.

Even though the pearls come from the ocean, this doesn't mean your pearl jewelry will enjoy a swim in the ocean, surf, or a scuba dive. The salty water, combined with the many pollutants, is a recipe for disaster concerning the soft nature of the pearl.

Pearls certainly don't have to be locked away and worn only for special occasions, but you should take care that they aren't damaged by the elements since they are still semi-precious gemstones.

 

Chemicals Can Be Toxic to Pearl Jewelry

Just as some people are allergic to chemicals, pearl jewelry is "allergic" to hairsprays, perfumes, liquid and powder makeups, and lotions. The acidic chemicals and artificial dyes contained in such products - even those touted as "natural" - can shorten the lifespan of your pearls.

This isn't to say that you shouldn't style your hair or apply your fragrance if you're going to wear your pearl jewelry. Rather, keep the "last on, first off" rule in mind. When you're dressing, your pearl jewelry should be the last item you put on, just before you head out the door. When you return, your pearl jewelry should come off first, before you kick off your shoes and relax for the evening. By following this rule, you'll limit your pearl jewelry's exposure to chemicals and prolong the life of your jewelry.

 

Keeping Pearl Jewelry Clean

Like all jewelry, pearl jewelry becomes dirty over time. You can gently clean your pearl jewelry yourself with a slightly damp, soft, clean cloth. It's important that you don't use any type of scrubbing device, like a sponge or a toothbrush, and that you don't use soap or detergent (see chemicals, above).

After cleaning, lay your pearl jewelry on a clean, soft cloth to dry.

You can also have your pearl jewelry professionally cleaned. Many jewelers who specialize in pearls offer cleaning services for Akoya pearls, Tahitian pearls, and freshwater pearls of every color.

 

Re-Stringing Pearl Necklaces

If you have an Akoya pearl necklace, a Tahitian pearl necklace, or a freshwater pearl necklace, and you wear it regularly, it's advisable to replace the silk string every two to three years. Re-stringing your pearl necklace helps ensure that it won't break and that you won't lose pearls.

Enjoy wearing your pearl jewelry. With some common sense care and cleaning, you'll be able to enjoy it for years to come.