What is the best way to clean pearls?

Q:  What is the best way to clean pearls?

When caring for your pearls, the best thing to remember is "Last on and first off".  Put your pearls on last, after you have applied any perfume, make-up, and sprays.  First off - remove your pearls before pulling clothing over your head or washing your face.  Cosmetics, sun block, perfume, and hair spray contain chemicals that can drastically dull the luster of a pearl.  

The natural acids in body oils and perspiration can also damage pearls in the same way.  

Wiping pearls with a soft cloth after you wear them will ensure they remain free of harmful buildup of these compounds.  Always keep pearls separate from your other jewelry to prevent them from being scratched. 

If you wear your pearls often, they should be restrung once every two years, as the silk strands they are strung on are fragile and prone to deterioration.  Knotting of the strand between pearls prevents all the pearls in a strand from falling out if breakage occurs, and also prevents possible damage from the pearls rubbing against each other. 

Proper care of your pearls will ensure they remain bright and beautiful for generations to come.