Pearls the Care and Feeding of

Pearls part II

Pearls are not only easily scratched but are also sensitive to chemical damage. I’m sure you’ve all heard the story of how Cleopatra crushed a very large and expensive pearl then dissolved it in a glass of wine for Mark Anthony’s pleasure...needless to say he was very impressed, and probably sadden that such a beautiful creation of nature was destroyed in such a mindless manner.
Also pearls should not be stored in tightly closed plastic baggies, pearls need to breath. I store my own fine pearl necklaces in small silk pouches away from other jewelry that could damage or scratch them. After wearing pearls or any fine piece of jewelry it is highly recommended to wipe it gently with a clean soft cloth to remove any body oils or perspiration that might have accumulated during wear.
When cleaning a piece of jewelry containing pearls one should never use caustic chemicals such as ammonia, acids or cleaners that are recommended specifically for cleaning silver or metals...be sure that what ever cleaning agent you use states that it is safe for use on pearls. For myself I always use a special felt like cleaning cloth called a "Sunshine" cloth, it is safe to use on all delicate gemstones including pearls and soft turquoise, is nonabrasive and contains no harmful chemicals.