[Steppes] questions about pearls

[Kellie Hardy]

With proper care, the luster of pearls increases with contact on skin.  Avoid perfumes, lotions, powders or any other cosmetic in the area where the pearl will rest against the skin.  Petroleum based products will destroy the pearl's outer layer over time.

Special care is definitely needed with pearls.  Never use jewelery cleaner on them.  Warm, distilled water and a soft cloth (seldom employed) are all that should be needed.  Dry them thoroughly before storing.  Keep them in their own felt pouch, or better
yet in a jewelery "folder", that forces the necklace(?) to lie flat and prevents the stones from rubbing one another.

No!  don't wear it in the shower!  Or while washing dishes or the dog, cooking, etc.  The outer layer of the stone, where the luster resides, is very fragile and cannot be replaced.

The glue is not great.  Have a jeweler inspect it annually if you wear it regularly.  The stone should be set onto a post in the ring setting--not just glued...

These tips apply to opals too, BTW....

Catrin

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Karen Calhoun wrote:

> I am in need of "care and feeding" instructions for pearls.