QuestionHi there. I have a strand of excellent pearls with a heavy nachre on them and I am worried about ruining them. I use lotion that has a fragrance in it, and various other products. I would never spray any perfume or hairspray on while wearing them, but I worry about acid from my skin and other incidentals. Should I worry about wearing them? Thank you for your help! Elizabeth
AnswerElizabeth, you do well to not spray on hair spray or perfume while wearing the pearls. I am happy!
The basic rule is that pearls are the very last item to be put on when dressing. That includes hair spray, etc., which should precede the pearls. Pearls are a natural organic substance and perfumes, lacquer solvents, alcohol, etc. can affect the surface of the pearls.
I suggest you "put on the pearls last" and in most cases you will be perfectly ok. Keep in mind that many make-up ingredients contain minute abrasives in the form of minerals ground finely to provide color, etc. If on the neck where the pearls can be and move, the surface of the pearls over time can be abraded slightly and perhaps stained.
Generally, skin oils are not a problem or the "acids" from the skin. The secret is to wash the pearls ever so often. Yes, wash the pearls! You can use a mild dish detergent and water solution and using fingers gently rub each pearl and slosh a bit to help clean the cord where you can not reach easily. Rinse quite well in lukewarm water, pat dry and hang up to completely dry. This procedure will keep the pearls clean and remove most residue from wearing.
Clean your pearls ever so often and feel free to wear them with joy.
God Bless and Peace. Thomas.
