Shiels Pearls Care Guide
Pearls are a timeless and elegant gemstone that can add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. They have been loved and worn for centuries and are a statement piece that exudes confidence. However, pearl jewellery also requires special care to maintain its natural beauty and shine. Whether you have a pearl necklace, pearl earrings, or a pearl bracelet, it is imperative that you take care of your pearls to ensure their longevity.
In this pearls guide, we will provide you with some tips on how to care for your pearls, including how to store them, clean them, and prevent damage. By following these simple steps, you can keep your pearls looking radiant and beautiful for many years to come.
How To Care For Pearl Jewellery
Caring for your pearl jewellery is the best way to make sure that they last a lifetime and continue to wow even after years to come.
Stay away from heat and sunlight: Pearls are a very sensitive gemstone, therefore, prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight can cause them to become discoloured and dry out. This also means that you will need to pay attention to where you store your jewellery. Avoid storage in direct sunlight or near sources of heat such as radiators, ovens or fireplaces.
Store pearls in a soft pouch or cloth: When you’re not wearing your jewellery, you should keep them safe and sound in a soft cloth or pouch to protect from scratches and damage. Avoid keeping them in airtight containers or plastic bags as they will need to breathe to maintain their lustre.
Keep away from chemicals: Not only are pearls sensitive to light and heat, but they are also sensitive to harsh chemicals. This could mean more than what you might consider a “harsh chemical” could include perfume, hairspray and household cleaners.
Last on, first off: An easy way to keep your pearls safe is to make sure that they are the last on, and the first off when you are getting ready. This will help to keep them away from makeup, lotions, hairspray and perfumes.
Wear them often: Not only are pearls a gorgeous addition to your look, but they do best in moist conditions. Regular wear will keep them from drying out.
How to clean pearl jewellery
- Start by wiping the pearls with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
- Mix a small amount of mild soap (such as baby shampoo) with warm water in a bowl.
- Dip a soft, clean cloth into the soapy water and gently wipe the pearls. Avoid using abrasive materials such as a toothbrush, as this can scratch the surface of the pearls.
- Rinse the pearls with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Gently dry the pearls with a soft, clean towel.
- Allow the pearls to air dry completely before storing them.
Avoid using harsh chemicals, steamers, or ultrasonic cleaners to clean your pearl jewellery, as these can damage the pearls.
How to Clean Pearls That Have Yellowed
As pearls change and age over time, they can become discoloured.
This is especially if your pearls are not taken care of properly. No one wants
yellow pearls! To ensure that a yellowed pearl can turn white again, consider the
following:
Soak the pearl in a cleaning solution for a few minutes;
preferably in dish soap and warm water. Rinse the pearl thoroughly and pat dry
with a soft cloth. If the pearl is severely yellowed, consider seeking a professional
pearl cleaner.
To prevent your pearls from turning yellow, you can wear
them more to give them more moisture, store them carefully and clean them
regularly.
It’s important to note that some pearls may not be able to
be restored to their original white colour. When cleaning your peals, be careful
not to handle them roughly nor expose them to harsh chemicals, as this can
cause further damage.
Freshwater Pearl Care
Freshwater pearls and cultured pearls are both organic gemstones created by mollusks. However, there are some differences in how they are cared for. Cultured pearls refers to pearls that are created by human intervention. There is no real difference between freshwater pearls and cultured freshwater pearls aside from their origins. However, the real difference is between saltwater versus freshwater.
Freshwater pearls are grown in freshwater lakes and rivers, and saltwater pearls refers to any pearls that are grown in saltwater oceans and seas. Freshwater pearls are generally less expensive and are not as valuable as their saltwater counterparts.
Freshwater pearls are generally more durable than cultured saltwater pearls, however, they are also more prone to discolouration or fading over time, especially when in direct sunlight or harsh chemicals.
To care for freshwater pearls, it's important to avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, heat, or chemicals. Instead, store them in a soft cloth or jewellery pouch when not in use, and wipe them down with a soft cloth after wearing to remove any oils or dirt.
Care for cultured
A cultured pearl is a type of pearl that is grown by inserting an irritant such as a bead or piece of tissue into a mollusc (usually an oyster). The mollusc then secretes layers of nacre, a combination of calcium carbonate and protein, around the irritant over a period of several years, creating a pearl. Unlike natural pearls, which are created by chance in the wild, cultured pearls are intentionally grown by pearl farmers in controlled environments. Cultured pearls can vary in size, shape, and colour, depending on the type of mollusk used and the specific cultivation methods employed.
Cultured saltwater pearls are generally more delicate and require more care than freshwater pearls. They are prone to chips and scratches, and can be damaged by exposure to heat or chemicals. However, with the right care, cultured pearls can last a lifetime.
You should take all the same actions of care for freshwater pearls, but with added precautions to ensure their safety. They will require more frequent and gentler cleaning as well as avoidance of sunlight and heat.
Ensure that your jewellery lasts a very long time by caring for it properly. Keep your pearls looking stunning, shiny and beautiful with regular cleaning and safe storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Jewellery Cleaning Solution on My Pearls?
Some jewellery cleaning solutions can be used on pearls. However, check the label of the solution first as some solutions may not be safe on pearls. Try not to use anything abrasive as it may scratch your pearls and rub off the outer coating. Do your research online prior to using a solution to ensure that it will not cause damage to your pearls.
How Should I Store My Pearl Jewellery?
Keeping your pearl jewellery nice and secure is essential to maintaining its quality. Keep your pearl jewellery on a soft cloth or pouch to prevent any contact with harsh surfaces. This includes storing each piece of pearl jewellery separately to avoid tangles. Avoid storing your pearl jewellery in extreme temperatures as this can age the pearls and cause mould growth. Alternatively, store your pearl jewellery in cool environments.
How Often Should I Clean My Pearl Jewellery?
Intense or professional pearl cleaning is recommended once or twice a year, whereas gentle cleaning is recommended every time you wear the pearl jewellery. This can be as little as wiping the pearls with a soft cloth.
