Friday, November 20, 2009
What Make Pearl Earrings Stand the Test of Time
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Proper Care for Delicate Pearls
The delicacy of pearls means that special care should be taken with them, as with all jewelry. The proper care of pearls is explained here. This article is property of Constant Content Writer Word Gypsy and is being printed here without the author's permission. Pearls are worn by women everywhere and have been for centuries. From natural pearls to cultured pearls, pearls are available to us in many colors and shapes. Wearing, storing, and taking care of our pearls is something that takes a little bit of care and effort in order to preserve their fine beauty.
Storing Your Pearls
Pearls should be stored carefully in order to protect them and prevent needlessly scratching them. The nacre coating is quite delicate and does not respond well to being tossed into a wooden drawer or onto a dresser. Pearls should be carefully wrapped in a soft cloth, preferably a non-abrasive one, and placed into a lined jewelry box compartment. They should be the only piece of jewelry there.
If that is not possible, pearls should be placed onto a soft, felt surface in a jewelry box compartment or in a small felt or foam-lined box. Again, the pearls should be placed into the compartment alone.
Additionally, it is important to prevent your pearls from knocking up onto hard surfaces, including other gemstones. This type of contact can damage the delicate coating of your pearls.
Wearing Your Pearls Proudly and Properly
Due to their delicate nature, pearls require special care. Harsh chemicals, perfumes, makeup, hairspray, and lotions can damage pearls, causing them to lose their shine and luster. Therefore, it is important to put all of these things on before you place your pearls on. In fact, whenever applying lotion, antibacterial soap, or using hand sanitizers, you should remove your pearl ring or bracelet first to avoid damaging them. Not only will your pearls shine more
brightly if you follow these practices, but also, your pearls will be less susceptible to picking up traces of dirt and grime.
Cleaning Your Pearls
Occasionally, pearls become dirty through constant use. Since dirt and grime can remove the luster or shine from pearls, it is important to clean them as soon as you notice they are dirty. For a light coating of dirt, a simple wiping with a soft, non-abrasive cloth should clean them up nicely.
If it becomes necessary to do a bit more thorough cleaning, a damp, non-abrasive cloth can be used to wipe the pearls gently. It is essential to allow your pearls to air dry to protect their
nacre coating. It this method does not remove the built-up dirt sufficiently, mild soap and water can be used. If possible, select a soap that has the fewest color or scent additives. Again, you should allow your pearls to air dry in order to protect them. Never place your pearls back into storage before they have thoroughly dried.
Restringing Your Pearls
Since pearls are typically laced together with fine silk threads or thin nylon threads, it is essential to have your pearls checked at least once a year. The fine silk or nylon threads have a tendency not to hold up to wear very well. Therefore, you should take them to a reputable jeweler to have them restrung.
The delicate beauty of pearls is undeniable. Long before diamonds became the most coveted jewel of all, pearls were by far the most popular gemstone. Noted for their fine luster and shine, pearls were highly prized.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
How to Look Fabulous in Pearls
Pearls are a versatile addition to any wardrobe but sometimes they need to be updated a bit. Here are some fashion forward ways to wear pearls. Pearls can look stunning for both day and evening wear and can be the perfect finishing touch to an outfit worn to the office or to a more formal evening affair. With such versatility is there any wonder that pearls have been so
popular over time? Unfortunately, a simple strand of white pearls, although elegant, can look a bit trite and uninspiring for some occasions. Why not jazz up your pearls a bit by adding some additional fashion touches? Here’s how:
How to wear pearls: Wear oversized pearls
Oversized pearls can make an ordinary outfit look dramatic, yet still elegant. Although a strand of large cultured pearls might be out of your price range, don’t be afraid to buy a strand of high quality glass pearls. Look for ones with a nice reflective surface and sheen to them. You’ll find yourself pairing our oversized pearls with everything from your winter sweaters to your evening attire. When you wear oversized pearls, be sure to keep the rest of your jewelry more understated. Let the pearls be your focal point.
How to wear pearls: Add a pendant to your pearls
You can completely change the look of a strand of pearls by adding an enhancer with an attached pendant. An enhancer is simply a piece that clips on to your pearl necklace that allows you to hang a pendant or a cluster of stones on your pearl necklace to give it a whole new look. You can usually purchase an enhancer at your local pearls jewelry store or online. When purchasing an enhancer at your local jewelry store, bring along your strand of pearls so you can see how different enhancers work with your necklace.
How to wear pearls: Mix pearls with metal
For an evening look, layer a few long strands of glass pearls with metal chains in either silver or gold to add a touch of drama to your outfit. Pearls and gold are always a beautiful combination but long strands of glass pearls can look hip worn with long link chains in sterling silver and even copper.
How to wear pearls: Go for colored pearls
You can buy freshwater and glass pearls in a dizzying array of beautiful colors to enhance spring outfits. Look for freshwater pearls in a variety of pastel shades as well as beiges, creams, and even metallic. Layer on several strands of colorful freshwater pearls to enhance a blouse or dress in spring colors. Freshwater pearls are an inexpensive way to add color to your outfits.