5 Rules for Maintaining The Beauty of Pearls

1. When taking off a pearl ring, grasp on the shank, or metal part, rather than the pearl to prevent it from loosening and coming into contact with the skin oil on your hand.
2. Never store pearls in a safe, safety deposit box or plastic bag for long periods. The heat can turn the pearls brown or dry them out, making them crack.
3. Only use jewellery cleaners labeled as safe for pearls. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or steam-clean pearls. After wearing, wipe them with a soft, dry or damp cloth to prevent dirt and keep perspiration, which is slightly acidic, from eating away the pearl nacre. You can also use a drop of olive oil on the cloth to help maintain their luster.
4. Avoid exposing pearls to dish or wash detergents, bleaches, powdered cleaners, baking soda or ammonia-based cleaners.
5. Have your pearls restrung once a year if you wear them often.