How can I clean my pearls?
Pearls should be regarded on the same level as precious stones and precious metals. It is important to take special care of your pearls to ensure their brightness and beauty last for generations to come.
What can spoil the outer shine of pearls? Pearls are more vulnerable than many other gems. It is advisable to put on makeup and perfume before wearing pearls on the skin, because perfumes and cosmetics are harmful to pearls. Heat, perfume, excessive body perspiration, face powder, hair sprays, creams, or constant contact with rough fibres of clothing can damage the delicate outer surface of pearls. This is because they are made of water and proteins such as conchiolin, calcite, and aragonite, which the shellfish uses to defend itself from external agents that, penetrating inside, are continuously coated, isolating these impurities. However, do not think that the pearl is fragile; if treated with care, many pearls retain their full beauty for centuries. Once a year, pearl experts recommend soaking them in a mild soapy, non-detergent solution after carefully removing them from their setting, washing them thoroughly and cleaning them. If you have a necklace, string them in increasing size order on a silk thread, spacing them apart with a small knot. If not used often, it is good practice to keep them wrapped in a silk handkerchief and, if possible, in a dry and airy place. Finally, avoid cleaning pearls with toothbrushes or other overly abrasive materials. Simple advice to protect your pearls: Simple measures are enough to regularly protect your pearls, such as wiping them with a soft damp cloth after wearing them, a quick operation that takes only a minute, and finally storing them in their case. This procedure ensures that the pearls will not be attacked by all the harmful products mentioned earlier. A pearl contains 4% water, and for this reason, it risks drying out. If dehydrated, it can become dull and perish. Therefore, it is imperative to wear the necklace regularly and not forget it in a drawer. The moisture of the skin promotes its shine. If your pearls are really very faded, it will be necessary to consult a specialist. It is important to keep pearls separate from other jewellery. Always keep your pearls separate from hard items that could scratch them, such as pin points, rings, diamonds, or others. Pearls are best kept in a separate box or a soft fabric pouch, or in a separate compartment of your jewellery box.By Ferro Jewels Website: www.ferrogioielli.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/FerroGioielli
