Pearls are among the most rewarding pieces of jewellery to wear and among the least forgiving of neglect. With a few habits they last a lifetime. These are the things we do ourselves and recommend to you.
The most important rule: jewellery goes on last
Put your pearls on as the last step, after getting dressed, doing your make-up and putting on perfume. Nacre is porous, and perfumes, creams and hairspray dull its glow over time. And when you get home, take them off before removing your make-up.
What to avoid
Sea water, swimming pools, showers and heavy sweat. Chlorine and salt attack both the nacre and the gold plating. Do not wear them for sport or to sleep either: the thread wears out and the pearls knock against each other. And always take them off before using cleaning products.
How to clean them at home
After wearing them, wipe them with a soft, dry cloth, or a slightly damp one if they have been against the skin for many hours. No jewellery cleaners, vinegar, bicarbonate or brushes: they scratch the nacre. If a pearl has lost its glow, a chamois cloth with a little water is all it needs. Let it air dry before putting it away.
The gold plating
Our findings are silver or brass with reinforced 18k gold plating. The plating stands up well to normal wear, but it is a layer, not solid gold: constant rubbing against other metal jewellery, sweat and chemicals wear it down. With these habits it keeps its colour for years.
How to store them
In their case, each piece separately, in a dry, cool place. Pearls should not rub against other jewellery or be kept in airtight plastic bags for long, because they need some ambient humidity so they do not dry out. A drawer with their case is perfect.
Elastic rings and ear cuffs
The rings are mounted on elastic nylon thread. To put them on, roll the ring onto the finger instead of stretching it with two fingers; that way the thread lasts much longer. Ear cuffs adjust with a light press: do not open and close them more than necessary.
