Article fashion jewelry

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 their glow. Whether you've purchased your pearl jewelry or received it as a gift
it's important to take care of it to ensure it lasts a lifetime.

Density of Pearl Jewelry

Diamonds
which have been compacted for eons deep in the earth
are the hardest gemstone in the earth. Pearls
on the other hand
are cultivated within the shells of oysters. 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
so you want to take the steps necessary to keep these gems looking their best.

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 pearl earrings. So don't wear your pearl jewelry when you engage in physical labor
work in the yard
or work out at the gym. The dirt and perspiration will shorten the life of your pearls. Similarly
even though the pearls come from the ocean
it doesn't mean that your pearl jewelry will thrive when you swim in the ocean
surf
or scuba dive. Pearls certainly don't have to be locked away and work only for special occasions
but you should take care that they aren't damaged by the elements.

Chemicals Can Be Toxic to Pearl Jewelry

Just as some people are allergic to chemicals
pearl jewelry can be "allergic" to hairsprays
perfumes
and lotions. The chemicals contained in such products - even those touted as "natural" - can shorten the lifespan of your pearls. This isn't to say that you should 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 very slightly damp soft clean cloth. It's important that you don't use any type of scrubbing devise
like a sponge or a toothbrush
and that you don't use soap or detergent. 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 pearl jewelry offer cleaning services for Akoya pearls
Tahitian pearls
and freshwater pearls of every color - such as white
pink
and black pearls.

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 or three years. Re-stringing your pearl necklace helps ensure that it won't break and that you won't lose one or more pearls.

By all means
enjoy wearing your pearl jewelry. And
with some common sense care and cleaning
you'll be able to enjoy it for years to come.