Cleaning your Pearls

Based from the book "PEARL Buying Guide" by Renee Newman GG, here are some practical and easy-to-remember ways to take care of your pearls:

[1] Do NOT use commercial jewelry cleaners on pearls unless the labels say they are safe for pearls. Many of them contain ammonia, which will cause deterioration.

[2] NEVER clean pearls in an ultrasonic cleaner. It can damage the pearls and wash out the color if the pearls have been dyed.

[3] NEVER steam-clean pearls. Heat can harm them.

[4] NEVER use detergents, bleachers, powdered cleansers, baking soda or ammonia-based cleaners on pearls.

[5] Do NOT use toothbrushes, scouring pads or abrasive materials to clean pearls.

[6] After you wear your pearls, WIPE them off with a soft cloth or a chamois which can be dry or damp.

[7] Pearls CAN BE cleaned by your jeweler or they can be washed in water and a mild soap such as IVORY or LUX liquid (some liquid soaps can damage pearls) and cleaned with a soft cloth.
	[8] After washing the pearls, lay the pearls flat in a moist kitchen towel to dry. After the towel is dry, they should be dry.