Caring for Your Tahitian Pearls
While Tahitian pearls are meant to be worn, they are delicate and require a certain degree of care to preserve their natural luster and beauty for generations to come. Pearls are the only organic gem and as such, are more delicate than other gemstones used in jewelry. Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners or even the softest of brushes to clean your pearls. To safely clean your pearls, simply bathe them in water and wipe them dry with a lint-free cloth. Store pearls separately from your other jewelry, in a soft pouch or lined box or drawer. The lustrous surface of a pearl is softer than other gemstones and can be scratched by harder metal and gemstone jewelry.
Pearls contain a fair amount of water. Storing them in a dry place (like a box placed in a safe or in an air conditioned compartment) will eventually cause them to lose their natural moisture and luster. Pearls should also be kept away from hot and dry environments. One of the best ways to keep your pearls looking beautiful is to wear them as they will naturally absorb moisture from the air and from your skin!
Always put on your pearl jewelry as the final touch – after applying make-up and styling your hair. As pearls are naturally absorbent, their surface luster can be harmed by the chemicals and acids in hairsprays, cosmetics and perfumes. After wearing your pearls, gently wipe them clean with a lint-free cloth before putting them away.