Do we enjoy wearing pearls or do pearls enjoy being worn? Both! Pearls are a staple of any wardrobe, classic style that goes with anything. However, due to their porous nature, they need the oil in our skin to stay hydrated. They will dry out, become yellow, and dull if they are not worn every few months. It’s the perfect friendship- they makes us look good while we keep them looking good!

Facts about Pearls:

• June’s Birthstone and the stone for the 3rd and 13th anniversaries
• Pearls are most commonly white and cream, but come in a wide variety of colors.
• Pearls come in many shapes, including round, baroque and pear.
• Pearl iridescence is called orient. This is the subtle rainbow sheen due to light passing through the nacre or mother of pearl layers.
• Natural, cultured and synthetic options
• There are four types of cultured pearls:

  • Akoya- classic white

  • South Sea- often larger with greater value due to their longer growth period.
  • Tahitian, often called black pearls, but come in many colored overtones.
  • Fresh water- most accessible and largest variety.
• The color of the Mother of Pearl layer in a mollusk shell often relates to the color of the resulting pearl.
• Mohs harness level: 2.5-3.0 (easily scratched).
• Sensitive to extreme heat and acidity- Pearls can dissolve in vinegar! They can be easily damaged by creams, perfumes and hairspray so follow the “last on, first off” rule.
• Care: For routine care, use a soft, untreated, clean polishing cloth. If really necessary, pearls can be wiped with soft damp cloth with a touch of Dawn dish soap. Wipe with a clean, damp cloth until fully rinsed. Try to avoid getting the string wet, but if it does, let the string dry completely before wearing.
• Chemical formula: CaCO₃
• Source: GIA.edu