Proper Care & Maintenance for Cultured Pearls
Cultured pearls are organic gemstones that require delicate care to preserve their natural luster, orient, and longevity. To ensure your jewelry pieces maintain their brilliant finish, please follow these professional maintenance guidelines:
1. Avoid Chemical & Acid Exposure
-
The Golden Rule: Always apply perfumes, cosmetics, hairsprays, and styling products before putting on your pearl jewelry.
-
Chemical Hazards: Avoid any contact with acids, alkalis, and harsh substances, including soaps and household cleaners.
-
Activities: Never wear pearl jewelry while swimming, bathing, or sleeping.
2. Guard Against Heat & Kitchen Grime
-
Thermal Protection: Pearls contain a natural trace amount of water. Avoid direct exposure to prolonged sunlight, high temperatures, and overly dry environments to prevent dehydration and cracking.
-
Kitchen Grease: Do not wear pearls while cooking. Airborne steam, oils, and cooking fumes can easily seep into the micro-pores of the nacre, causing the pearls to lose their luster and prematurely yellow.
3. Cleaning & Hydration Moisture Rules
-
No Submersion: Never submerge pearl necklaces or strands in water or ultrasonic cleaners. Moisture entering the drill holes can lead to internal fermentation, weakening the silk thread and causing the drilling area to discolor.
-
Daily Maintenance: After wear, gently wipe your pearls with a soft, slightly damp lint-free cloth to remove sweat and body oils, then allow them to air-dry naturally before storage.
4. Storage & Air Circulation
-
Let Them Breathe: Do not seal pearls in airtight plastic bags or keep them locked in airtight safes for extended periods. Pearls require natural humidity and fresh air; wearing them every few months allows them to absorb natural moisture from the skin.
-
Anti-Scratch Storage: Store pearl jewelry separately in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box compartment to prevent harder gemstones or metals from scratching the delicate nacre surface. Avoid wearing them against rough, abrasive fabrics.
5. Regular Inspection & Restringing
-
Thread Longevity: The silk thread used in luxury knotting will naturally loosen and stretch over time. We recommend inspecting the strand regularly and restringing your pearls every 1 to 2 years (or every 3 years for occasional wear).
-
Friction Prevention: Dirt accumulating inside the drill holes acts as an abrasive, which can eventually fray and snap nylon or silk threads near the clasp. Timely maintenance prevents accidental breakage and loss.