As a jewelry designer, it is essential to provide your customers with expert advice on how to care for their precious gems. Tahitian pearls, known for their exquisite beauty and lustrous shine, require proper care and cleaning to maintain their brilliance. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to ensure your Tahitian pearls remain stunning for years to come.
Why are Tahitian Pearls Special?
Tahitian pearls are unique and highly sought after due to their natural dark colors, ranging from black to gray, with overtones of blue, green, and purple. These pearls are cultivated from the black-lipped oyster, also known as the Pinctada margaritifera, which is native to French Polynesia.
Proper Care for Tahitian Pearls
1. Avoid Chemicals: Perfumes, lotions, and hairsprays can damage the luster of your Tahitian pearls. It is advisable to apply these products before wearing your pearls and allow them to dry completely.
2. Storage: Store your Tahitian pearls separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Consider using a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to protect them from dust and humidity.
3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Pearls are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or cold temperatures, as it can cause the pearls to crack or lose their luster.
4. Gentle Handling: When handling your Tahitian pearls, be gentle and avoid dropping them onto hard surfaces. Pearls are delicate and can be easily scratched or damaged.
Proper Cleaning Techniques
1. Soft Cloth: Gently wipe your pearls with a soft, lint-free cloth after each wear. This will remove any dirt or oils that may have accumulated on the surface.
2. Mild Soap Solution: If your pearls require a deeper clean, prepare a mild soap solution using lukewarm water and a gentle, non-detergent soap. Dip a soft cloth or a sponge into the solution and gently wipe the pearls. Rinse them with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
3. Avoid Submerging: Never submerge your Tahitian pearls in water or use ultrasonic cleaners. Excessive exposure to water can weaken the silk thread used to string the pearls and may cause them to stretch or become loose.
4. Restringing: Over time, the silk thread used to string your pearls may weaken. It is recommended to have your Tahitian pearls restrung every few years by a professional jeweler to ensure their longevity.
By following these care and cleaning tips, you can enjoy the beauty of your Tahitian pearls for generations. Remember, proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve the natural allure of these exquisite gems.
Kahakai Collections specializes in Tahitian, Edison, South Sea and Keshi pearls made with 14K gold fill materials, and we take pride in handcrafting quality jewelry pieces. We'd love to have you as a customer! You can find us at Kahakai Collections.