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. In other words, 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.
Since cultured freshwater pearl primarily consists 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.
Also oil from your skin can 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. 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.
Besides, if pearl necklace or other pearl jewelry styles 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.
Just keep in mind, like anything you value, the more diligent you are about caring for your pearls, the longer they will last.
Orignal From: Pearl Care
