How should I clean and store my pearl jewelry? |
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Types
Of Pearls
|
Akoya |
The
most valuable type of pearl, these gems are grown in
the Akoya oysters of Japan. They are known for their
radiance and deep luster. |
|
Mabe |
(Pronounced
mah-beh.) A pearl grown on the inside shell of an oyster.
Its hemispherical (half-round) shape allows the host
oyster to produce a larger pearl. |
|
Freshwater |
Pearls
cultured in freshwater mollusks are generally small
and off-shape and have a cloudy luster. These pearls
come in a variety of shapes (button, coin, flat, rice,
oval) and natural colors (orange, gold, white, purple,
blue, and black). |
|
South
Sea |
These
black, white, and silver-toned pearls are grown in the
waters around Australia and Tahiti. The oysters of these
waters are large, allowing for a larger pearl (10 mm
or more) to be grown inside the oyster. |
Cleaning
Instruction:
 If
you wear your pearls frequently, you should consider washing
them approximately once a year. Although professional cleaning
is recommended, self-cleaning can also be done.
Place your pearls in a colander ( plastic ) to minimize
handling your pearls. Dip the colander several times in
a mild soap solution ( use a clear liquid soap ) ( Ivory
). Rinse thoroughly in clean water. Pour the pearls onto
a towel and allow to dry for at least 24 hours before handling
them.
Consider having your pearls restrung after three washings.
Remember
 Unlike
diamonds, pearls are extremely sensitive gems. Follow this
checklist and keep your pearls beautiful for many generations.
- Clean
regularly by wiping gently with a soft cloth. Pearls can
absorb perfume and skin oils as well as dirt.
- Put
on your pearls after you have applied makeup and
perfume.
- Never
soak pearls in water—they may become stained or discolored
- Restring
pearls annually to keep strands at their optimum strength
and appearance.
- To
clean, use a mild, nondetergent soap and lukewarm water.
Let the pearls dry for several days between two soft towels.
- Store
pearls separately in their own box or soft silk pouch.
Pearls may chip or pit, so keep them away from other jewelry.
- Never
close pearls up in an airtight container. Allow them to
breathe.
- Protect
pearls from temperature extremes and chemicals such as
vinegar, alcohol, ammonia, and hair spray, which can erode
their surfaces.
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