The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Your Pearl Jewellery

How to Care for Pearl Jewellery: A Comprehensive Guide

At Pearl and Grace Jewellery we know that our customers want to look after and treasure their jewellery, and therefore we are going to create a series of care guides in order for you to do just that. The first care guide is focused on caring for your pearls.

The History of Pearls

Pearls have been treasured for thousands of years, often referred to as the "Queen of Gems." Their allure dates to ancient civilisations, where they were symbols of wealth and status. In ancient China, pearls were believed to offer protection from fire and dragons. During the Roman Empire, pearls were so valuable that they could finance entire military campaigns. Cleopatra famously dissolved a pearl in vinegar to win a bet with Marc Antony, showcasing Egypt's immense wealth. The discovery of natural pearls in the New World by Christopher Columbus further intensified their demand in Europe.

Types of Pearls

Pearls come in various types, each with unique characteristics and origins:

1. Freshwater Pearls: These pearls are primarily cultivated in freshwater lakes and rivers, mainly in China. They are known for their wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours, including white, pink, peach, and lavender. Freshwater pearls are generally more affordable than their saltwater counterparts.
2. Akoya Pearls: Cultured in the cold waters off Japan and China, Akoya pearls are renowned for their perfectly round shape and high lustre. They typically come in shades of white, cream, and sometimes silver blue.
3. South Sea Pearls: These pearls are among the largest and most valuable. Cultured in the waters of Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, South Sea pearls can be white, silver, or golden. Their size and thick nacre give them a luxurious appearance.
4. Tahitian Pearls: Cultured in the warm waters of French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are famous for their dark, exotic colours, ranging from black to green, blue, and purple. They are often referred to as "black pearls" and are highly prized for their unique hues.

Myths About Pearls

Pearls have inspired numerous myths and legends throughout history:

1. Pearls as Tears: Ancient Japanese folklore held that pearls were made from the tears of mythical beings such as angels, nymphs, and mermaids4. Similarly, a legend says that the tears Eve cried when she was banished from Eden turned into pearls.
2. Dragon Pearls: Early Chinese civilizations believed pearls were formed in a dragon’s head and that once the pearls were full-grown, they were kept between the dragon’s teeth. To gather pearls, one had to slay the dragon, associating pearls with bravery.
3. Rainbow Pearls: A Persian legend states that pearls were created when a rainbow met the earth after a storm. Imperfections in a pearl's appearance were the result of thunder and lightning.
4. Moon Pearls: In ancient Vedic texts, pearls are considered to be the daughter of the Moon, born of the Earth's waters and the heaven's powers, fertilized by a flash of lightning.

Cleaning Pearl Jewellery

Pearls are delicate and require gentle care to maintain their lustre. Here are some tips for cleaning your pearl jewellery:

1. Use a Soft Cloth: After wearing your pearls, wipe them with a soft, damp cloth to remove any oils or dirt.
2. Mild Soap Solution: Occasionally, clean your pearls with a mild soap solution. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
3. Avoid Water: Do not submerge pearls in water for extended periods, as it can damage the nacre.
4. Dry Properly: Ensure your pearls are completely dry before storing them.

Looking After Your Pearls

Proper care extends beyond cleaning. Here are some tips to keep your pearls looking their best:

1. Store Separately: Store pearls separately from other jewellery to prevent scratches. Use a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box.
2. Wear Often: Pearls benefit from the natural oils in your skin, which help maintain their shine. Wear them regularly but avoid contact with perfumes and hairsprays.
3. Regular Inspections: Check your pearls regularly for signs of damage or wear. Look for any changes in colour or surface texture.
4. Avoid Airtight Containers: Pearls need to breathe, so avoid storing them in airtight containers.
5. Keep Away from Extreme Temperatures: Store pearls in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Restringing Pearls

Over time, the string holding your pearls can weaken. Restringing is essential to prevent loss and damage:

1. Professional Restringing: Have your pearls restrung by a professional jeweller every few years, especially if you wear them frequently.
2. Knotted Strings: Ensure the string is knotted between each pearl to prevent them from rubbing against each other and to minimise loss if the string breaks.
3. Quality Materials: Use high-quality silk and steer clear of nylon thread, for restringing to ensure durability.

By following these tips, you can keep your pearl jewellery looking beautiful for generations to come. Pearls are timeless treasures, and with proper care, they will continue to shine and captivate.