Remember that cultured pearls are precious jewels and should always be treated as such.

Don't toss them in a purse or jewelry box where they can become scratched by metal or stones.

Do treat your pearls gently; keep them in a chamois bag, or wrap them in tissue when you put them away.

Don't expose pearls to acid-based hair sprays, cosmetics or perfumes, or clean them with chemicals or abrasives.

Do wash them with mild soap and water when you take them off. This will remove any traces of hair spray or perfume.

Always have pearls strung with a knot between each pearl to avoid abrasion and to prevent loss if the string should break. Be sure to bring your pearl necklace to your jeweler for restringing once a year, as cosmetics and ordinary wear can damage or stretch the nylon threads on which the pearls are strung.