How to care for your Pearls
The nacre on Chinese freshwater cultured pearls is thicker and more durable than that found on most saltwater cultured pearls. However, all pearls are delicate as compared with inorganic gemstones and benefit from more careful handling. Always, apply perfume, hair spray and other cosmetics before putting on your pearls. Avoid acids and harsh cleaners containing chemicals such as chlorine and ammonia. Acid can come in the form of sweat, perfume, fruit juice, vinegar, or a number of other substances. The acid will break down the crystallized calcium of the pearl, ruining its luster and causing long-term damage. Wipe your pearls with a soft cloth, not tissue, after each use. When a soft cloth is no longer enough, clean your pearls with a mild, non-detergent soap (baby shampoo for example), rinse well with distilled water or mineral water (tap water may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can damage the pearl) and pat dry. Be careful not to rub the pearls against each other or stretch the thread. DO NOT USE JEWELRY CLEANERS OR ULTRASONIC CLEANERS.
When storing your pearls make sure that all clasps are closed and the strands are laying flat, not hanging (hanging the strand will allow the thread to stretch over time). A silk bag, velvet-lined or satin-lined container works best. If using a jewelry box make sure that the pearls are not exposed to the light and are not touching other jewelry (especially metal - this may cause scratches). Do not store pearls in a plastic bag. Some plastics can emit a chemical that, over time, will cause your pearls to deteriorate.
Make sure to examine your pearls for loose or fraying strings. If these are found, have them professionally restrung. It is recommended that you have your pearl strand restrung every one or two years. Depending on how often you wear them. Ask the jeweler to knot between each pearl. This will ensure that the pearls will not rub, causing damage, or if the strand breaks you will only loose one or two pearls.
For convenience, we do offer a restringing service. For more information on this service, please call 704-786-3540.
The nacre on Chinese freshwater cultured pearls is thicker and more durable than that found on most saltwater cultured pearls. However, all pearls are delicate as compared with inorganic gemstones and benefit from more careful handling. Always, apply perfume, hair spray and other cosmetics before putting on your pearls. Avoid acids and harsh cleaners containing chemicals such as chlorine and ammonia. Acid can come in the form of sweat, perfume, fruit juice, vinegar, or a number of other substances. The acid will break down the crystallized calcium of the pearl, ruining its luster and causing long-term damage. Wipe your pearls with a soft cloth, not tissue, after each use. When a soft cloth is no longer enough, clean your pearls with a mild, non-detergent soap (baby shampoo for example), rinse well with distilled water or mineral water (tap water may contain chlorine or other chemicals that can damage the pearl) and pat dry. Be careful not to rub the pearls against each other or stretch the thread. DO NOT USE JEWELRY CLEANERS OR ULTRASONIC CLEANERS.
When storing your pearls make sure that all clasps are closed and the strands are laying flat, not hanging (hanging the strand will allow the thread to stretch over time). A silk bag, velvet-lined or satin-lined container works best. If using a jewelry box make sure that the pearls are not exposed to the light and are not touching other jewelry (especially metal - this may cause scratches). Do not store pearls in a plastic bag. Some plastics can emit a chemical that, over time, will cause your pearls to deteriorate.
Make sure to examine your pearls for loose or fraying strings. If these are found, have them professionally restrung. It is recommended that you have your pearl strand restrung every one or two years. Depending on how often you wear them. Ask the jeweler to knot between each pearl. This will ensure that the pearls will not rub, causing damage, or if the strand breaks you will only loose one or two pearls.
For convenience, we do offer a restringing service. For more information on this service, please call 704-786-3540.