STORING PEARLS

Pearls will get brittleand crack when they are dehydrated. Never keep the pearls near heaters or in places that get strong exposure under sunlight. A plastic box can be kept dry. Try to take the pearls out of the box and get exposure under a moisture area regularly. Since pearls are soft gems, they should be stored out of things that can scratch them. Soft jewelry pouches or bags are a good choice for pearl storing.

Don't store your pearls with other jewelry, because they can be scratched easily when metal or gemstones rub against them. Find a special slot in your jewelry box for the pearls, or keep them in a soft bag made from chamois or another non-abrasive material.

Your fine pearl necklaces should be restrung periodically so that you're sure the silk or nylon cord holding them is in good shape.

Did You Know: Natural pearls are sold by carat weight, but cultured pearls are sold by their size in millimeters.

While pearls should not be allowed to get soaking wet, they do still need moisture, or they will become brittle and crack. They should never be stored in direct sunlight or extreme heat. Sealed plastic bags are also not a good idea, as they do not allow moisture in. Safe deposit boxes and plastic boxes are also usually dry, so if you store your pearls in one, be sure to take them out periodically and expose them to moisture.

Since pearls are soft, they should be stored away from any pronged jewelry, or anything else that could scratch them. Soft cloth pouches are ideal, or they may be wrapped in pieces of cloth. Lay them gently in a jewelry box, or better yet, a secure safe.