Pearl Jewelry is timeless. Your pearl jewelry will never go out of fashion and now there are such a variety of colours and designs and pearl mixes that there is a pearl piece for everyone. You have selected your pearls, but what is the best way to care for them?
Yes dahling, but are they cultured?
Pearls that are available for wear today are cultured, which means a human has inserted a bead into the oyster or clam in order to create the layers of hard, iridescent substance or nacre. Natural pearls are extremely expensive and are usually vintage pearls.
There are freshwater and saltwater cultured pearls. Pearls have different classifications according to their shape and sheen:
Spherical Shape: these are the most expensive, the rounder the shape, the more expensive it is
Symmetrical: shapes such as drops or ovals which are the same on both sides but not round
Baroque: Irregular shaped pearls, each are unique and can be quite beautiful
Acid Allergy
Pearls are very susceptible to any kind of acid and chemicals. So you should wear your makeup and hairspray before putting on pearls. You should also avoid cleaning pearls with any harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubs. The nacre is easily scratched and will absorb colour so you should be aware of that when wearing your pearls.
Usually cleaning with a soft cloth and very mild soap works best. Pearls also need to breathe and have a tendency to dry out, so do not store pearls in air tight containers, unlike silver which oxidizes. Finally, your silk cord will periodically need restringing. If you follow your common sense and remember that:
- Pearls are easily scratched
- Pearls do not do well with harsh chemicals and acids
- Pearls should be stored so it can breathe
You will enjoy your pearls for years to come.
About the Author:
Lakshmi Gosyne is a teacher, loves organic products and manages Pacifika Spirit. She lives in Northland, New Zealand with her husband. Read her blog to find information on South Pacific treasures.
