Pearls require more care and attention than other gems and jewelry.  These are soft, relatively delicate products born from living creatures.  On the Mohs scale of hardness talc is 1, quartz is 7, and diamonds are 10.  Pearls are 3-4.5, about the hardness of fingernails.

Natural Color Freshwater Rounds

Here is everything you need to know to properly care for pearls:

• Store your pearls in silk folders or cloth bags to protect against dings and scratches from other jewelry.  Avoid knocking your pearls against hard surfaces.
• Don’t store pearls in airtight containers: pearls need moisture.
• Pearls are attacked by acids.  Avoid contact with alcohol, vinegar, salad dressing, hair spray, cosmetics, perfume, bleach, ammonia, swimming pool water, etc.
• If your pearls will rest on skin do not put perfume and cosmetics on that area.
• Wipe your pearls with a soft cloth, damp or dry, after each use.
• As a rule of thumb pearls should be the last thing you put on before you leave the house and the first thing you take off when you come home.
• If you must wash your pearls use mild, non-detergent soap and don’t rub pearls together.  Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steamers, cleaning solutions or high heat.
• After washing rinse your pearls in tepid water.  Pat dry and lay flat on a towel to dry.
• Never hang pearls for drying or storage as this stretches the string.
• Restring your pearls every two years, annually if you wear them a lot.

Baroque Multicolor Oval Set - $495

Finally, don’t be afraid to wear your pearls.  Pearls are tougher than this advice would suggest.  Pearls like to be worn.  Your skin’s natural oils will help keep them lustrous and lively and will make them uniquely yours.  Don’t save them for special occasions.  With some care and attention your Seabourn Pearls will be a future heirloom for your family.

Other questions or concerns? Contact Seabourn Pearls.  You’ll find a helpful human eager to assist you.  Really, you will.