The pearls are very feminine and versatile and they confer a jovial and cheerful air. Maybe for this reason the pearl is one the most popular gems nowadays.
How the pearls are formed
All the true pearls marketed by the established jewelers are “cultivated“. It means that the man participates as initiator agent on its formation, by introducing one or more nuclei inside each oyster.
Soon after, the oysters are taken to its natural habitat – seas or lakes – where they stay, during a period that varies of one to three years, until they complete the cycle of its formation. During this period, it occurs a slow deposition of very fine and concentric layers of the well-known element as nacre (aragonite and calcite micro-crystals), responsible for the shine and beauty of the pearls.
After this step is accomplished, they are removed, cleaned and classified to be used in jewels.
This process, besides the high risk of loss involved, make the pearls even more valuable.
The pearls are very sensitive, even to weak acids, as perfumes.
How should we take care of our pearls?
Basically, to avoid them to be in direct contact with perfumes and other chemical products, clean them daintily after use, with a soft flannel or cotton of good quality.
You may also use neutral soap and distilled cold water, without soaking. Then, rinse well and dry with soft fabric or paper. Bracelets or necklaces of pearls should not be washed, as the humidity weakens the silk thread.
For an extra shine, rub slightly with olive oil or oil of almonds of good quality.
The pearls need “to breathe” and they are resented of the humidity or excessive dryness. Keep them in airy places and never keep them involved in plastic bags.
If you notice the silk threads became weak, forward your jewel to your jeweler so that the pearls are re-threaded.