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MuseumWayPearls.com - Pearl Care and Pearl Cleaning

Overview of Pearl Care

Pearls with thicker nacre and freshwater pearls without a mother of pearl nucleus are less susceptible to wear than pearls with thin nacre. Essentially, the thickness of the nacre protects the pearl for a longer period of time. That being said, natural wear or damage can occur regardless of nacre thickness over lengthy periods of time or if the pearls are subjected to adverse conditions.

The tips in this section are designed to help you prolong the life of your beautiful pearl jewelry so you can pass it down to the next generation when the time is right.

Physical Activity = Sweat = Acid = Possible Damage to Pearls

Since pearls primarily consist of calcium carbonate any interaction with an acid can cause damage to the pearl. As a result, pearls should not be worn during physical activities where sweating may occur. Sweat contains acids, which over time may damage your pearls. In addition to removing nacre from the surface of the pearls, sweat can also cause the drill holes where the silk is knotted together to enlarge. These are both deterrents to extending the life of your pearl jewelry.

Oil + Tanning + Pools + Beaches = Possible Damage to Pearls

Oil from your skin can also cause damage to your pearls. However, oil can be cleaned much easier so it tends to be less of a concern than sweat. Oil from other substances such as sun tan oil or lotion can also cause the same effect as oil from human skin. While we are on the topic of the sun tan, MuseumWayPearls.com recommends avoiding wearing your pearls to the beach or to the pool. Although water in its simplest form will not harm pearls, chlorine and other chemicals in a pool, and anything that may be found in salt water could potentially damage your pearls. We also recommend to avoid wearing pearls in Jacuzzis, saunas, and steam rooms.

Lengthy storage in air tight spaces + Minimal Wear * Storage with Other Jewelry in Excessively Lit or Heated Areas = Possible Damage to Pearls

It is important to wear your pearls regularly. Frequent wear means you aren’t storing your pearls for prolonged periods of times in tightly sealed or overly dry areas. Storing your pearls under these conditions can lead to the pearl drying out and potentially cracking. MuseumWayPearls.com recommends storing your pearls in a soft terrycloth bag with nothing else. If you store your pearls in a jewelry box with metals or other jewelry you risk the possibility of scratching the surface of your pearls. It is best to store them alone in a place where air can get at them. At the same time you want to make sure the pearls are not stored in excessive heat or excessive light.

Putting your Pearls on Last When Getting Ready = Long Life for Your Pearls

When beautifying, it is important to always remember to put your pearls on last. Drying your hair with your pearls on can cause damage to the pearls. In fact, a blow dryer can burn your pearls. Additionally, pearls should not come into contact with lotions, perfumes, hairsprays or other sprays containing chemicals. Attempt to keep these materials away from your neckline when wearing your pearls.

Soft Paper Tissue + Small Amount of Warm Water = Quick Cleaning Solution Sink + Warm Water + Dishwashing Detergent = Heavier Cleaning Solution

If your pearls do become dirty as most will just from normal wear, it is recommended to clean your pearls with a soft paper tissue with a small amount of warm water several times per year. This will remove small amounts of sweat, dirt and oil. If your pearls need a heavier cleaning this can be done in a cleaned out sink in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing detergent. The pearls should soak for no more than 30 minutes, after which time they should be placed on a soft cloth for 36-48 hours. Do not attempt to expedite the drying process with a hair dryer or by placing your pearls on some type of heating device. This will only harm your pearls. Also keep in mind most pearls are strung on silk so there is always the risk of the necessity to re-string if you wet and dry your pearls excessively.

Olive Oil Preserves Luster?

Some people believe treating your pearls with olive oil every couple of years helps preserve the luster.

Diligent Care = Long Life for your pearl jewelry

Just keep in mind, like anything you value, the more diligent you are about caring for your pearls, the longer they will last.

If you have any questions in regards to the care of your pearls or other questions related to MuseumWayPearls.com’s pearl jewelry do not hesitate to contact us at CustomerService@MuseumWayPearls.com or 888-817-2843. We are available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week to answer your questions.