How To Care For Your Pearls and Gems

The following are some jewelry safeguards from the Gemological Institute of America:

• According to GIA experts, chemicals found in everyday substances like hairspray, lotions, perfumes, or other cosmetics can damage the nacre of your dazzling pearl and can corrode the alloys in that shiny setting.

• Light and heat can affect a colored gemstone's durability and color. It also can fade and weaken some gemstones, such as amethyst, kunzite, topaz and pink conch-shell cameos. Pearls and other delicate materials, like ivory, will bleach under extreme exposure to light. Other gems, especially amber, can darken over time when exposed to too much light.

• Soft gems, such as pearls, can easily be scratched. GIA suggests using an unused makeup brush and warm, soapy water. Lay the pearls on a towel to dry. The wet string can stretch and attract dirt so don't touch a string of pearls until they are completely dry. Pearls worn every few days should be restrung once a year.

• Jewelry should never be tossed into a drawer or on top of a dresser -- that's a recipe for scratches and fractured gems. Most jewelry pieces come in a box or pouch from the store, which is a perfect place to keep them.

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7-8mm GENUINE black cultured pearl necklace 18"(45cm) US $.01

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