Care and Cleaning
For centuries, pearls have been considered ideal wedding gifts because they symbolize purity and innocence. These opulent gems can keep their rainbow lustre for centuries, when the generations of owners remember how these jewels of the sea differ from other precious gem material, and the proper way to care for them.
Proper care of pearls is not difficult, and it is merely a matter of remembering that these gems are organic by nature, grown in water from living cells of a mollusk. Like the oysters or mussels that formed them, they require moisture. Because they usually are worn on a silk string which will deteriorate when wet, the pearls will need to be re-strung more frequently if they are taken for a swim in salt or fresh water. Never expose to chlorinated water. Like their "organic" owners, pearls are prone to damage from pollution and injury. They can't stand the heat, and they should definitely stay out of the kitchen. After all, historically they were a gem for the wealthy and not the maid.
Here are some other tips to remember to keep your wedding jewelry elegant for years to come:
• Apply cosmetics, perfume and spray products first before putting pearl jewelry on.
• Wipe off your pearls after wearing by using a soft cloth. Avoid commercial jewelry cleaners unless specified on the label.
• Re-string pearls regularly for the sake of the pearls as well as to avoid a broken string. Makeup, powder and grime will form a soft, gluey paste on the string, attacking both the silk and the pearls.
• Store pearls separately from other jewelry, in a cloth bag or jewelry pouch.
• Avoid-
o Perspiration.
o Acids in the skin and elsewhere.
o Makeup and skin creams.
o Perfume.
o Hairspray and insect repellent.
o Talcum powder.
o Dust and grit.
o Ultrasonic cleaners.
o Steam cleaning.
o Soap and detergent
o Chlorinated water in shower or pool.
o Scratches from crystalline gemstones and metallic jewelry.
o Dehydration
o Heat
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