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Pearls are less durable than most gems, and are sensitive to acids, dryness and extreme humidity. Therefore, they should be cared for accordingly:- If you wear cosmetics, perfume or hair spray, apply them before putting on your pearl jewelry.
- When taking off your pearls, wipe them with a dry, lint-free cloth. The calcium carbonate in pearls dissolves in human sweat or oil from the skin, and this will diminish the pearls' luster.
- Be sure they don't get exposed for a long time to direct sunlight, especially ultraviolet rays; the protein in pearls becomes yellow under sunlight.
- If your pearls need cleaning, do so with warm soapy water (never an ultrasonic cleaner), taking care not to get water into the drill hole as the pearl may discolor.
- Dry your pearls flat on an absorbent, soft (and preferably lint-free) towel.
- Store them away from contact with metals or harder stones that might damage them. Also, don't store them in plastic, as it will seal out air, thereby accelerating deterioration.
- But don't just leave them in a drawer — wear them at least once a month, as the mild humidity from your skin is good for them.
Amazonite should be cleaned in lukewarm soapy water , never with a steamer or ultrasonic cleaner. Abrasives, acids and other chemicals can damage amazonite, as can scratches and sharp blows.
Radiation applied to colorless topaz creates a consistently beautiful blue hue, making this color of topaz more accessible for all. Topaz has perfect cleavage, making it susceptible to splitting if struck upon a hard surface. Consequently, topaz beads should be protected from knocks. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it beside a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean topaz in a home ultrasonic cleaner; the best cleanser is warm soapy water.
Courtesy of Rings & Things Wholesale of Spokane, WA |
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