Take your pearls off when applying cosmetics, hair sprays and perfume. These products can harm your pearls with their chemicals and acids.
Take your pearls off when bathing or swimming. It’s better not to get the silk string wet (because it will stretch) and soaps or pool chlorine can damage pearls.
Store your pearls separately from other gemstones which can scratch them. Wrapping them in a soft cloth is ideal for storage among other jewelry.
Do not use commercial jewelry cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage pearls. Clean your pearls gently by wiping with a damp wash cloth. If pearls are very dirty, they can be washed in water with a mild soap (like Ivory). After washing, lay the pearls flat on a towel to dry. Be sure to allow plenty of drying time before wearing - a wet necklace will stretch if worn or hung.
Have your pearls restrung periodically on new silk string. It is preferable to have them strung with knots between each pearl to keep them from rubbing against each other and to prevent scattering if the strand should break. Knotting also adds a luxurious suppleness to the strand. You can have this done at your local jewelry store.
