Pearls are organic gems, which require specialized care.  If handled properly, they will be protected for a very long time.  They can be harmed by contact  with many chemicals found in household cleaners,  perfumes, cosmetics and hair care products of all kinds.

1. Always remember that your Pearls should be the last thing you put on when dressing and the first thing you take off when you get home.
2. Always use only jewelry cleaners that are labeled as safe for Pearls.
3. Always store your Pearls wrapped in a soft cloth or pouch and protected from all abrasive objects.
4. Always wipe your Pearls with a soft cloth moistened in water.
5. Always remove your Pearls if you reapply hair spray, or put on perfume with a sprayer, both can damage Pearls.
6. Always be aware of the type of fabrics you wear.  Heavily textured fabrics such as Shetland wool can damage Pearls.
7. Never use toothbrushes, scouring pads or any type of abrasive material to clean your Pearls.
8. Never expose your Pearls to dish or laundry detergents, bleaches, powdered cleaners, baking soda or any ammonia based cleaner like Windex.
9. Never use any type of ultrasonic cleaner.
10. Never steam clean your Pearls.
11. Never use tarnish remover or any type of jewelry cleaner advertised on TV as a miracle cleaner.
12. Never store your pearls in any type of plastic bag.  Plastic can emit a chemical that will cause the surface of the Pearls to deteriorate.
13. Never leave your pearls around a direct source of heat such as a fireplace mantle, on top of a television set or stove.
14. Never store your Pearls in a very dry room or in a safety deposit box for a long time.  Your Pearls need a little moisture like your skin so that they will not dry out.

Always remember that Pearls are a gift from the sea to be enjoyed for generations to come.  The better you take care of them the longer thay will maintain their warm glowing luster.

Information provided by the Cultured Pearl Association of America