Protecting Pearls and
More
It doesn't get much more classic than pearls. These
popular keepsakes manage to be dainty and sweet, yet bold at the same
time. (Explains why they're a common choice for weddings!) Share these tips for
maintaining pearls from our partner Jewelers Mutual’s Jewelry Box Blog
with your clients. Then be sure they are are aware you can offer them
standalone coverage for pearls and other jewelry through Big “I” Markets.
Cultured pearls
are delicate and require proper care. They can't be maintained the same way as
other jewelry. Read on to learn how to best clean and care for your
pearls.
How to Clean Pearls
1. After
every wear, wipe your pearls with a soft cloth. This will
help prevent any buildup of oils or other substances that may have come in
contact with your jewelry throughout the day.
2. Clean
with a damp cloth only as needed. If your pearls are
visibly stained, you can mix a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap,
dip a soft cleaning cloth in it and wipe the pearls. Do NOT submerge a pearl
necklace in water, as it will weaken the silk thread.
3. Let
them dry all the way before storing. Again, this helps
preserve the elasticity of the silk strand.
4. Take
them to your jeweler once a year. While you want to wear
your pearls often to keep them hydrated, all that body oil doesn't do the silk
thread any favors. Make sure to have your jeweler check the integrity of your
pearl bracelets and necklaces once a year. They can also give them a
thorough, safe cleaning.
Never
clean pearls with a steam or ultrasonic jewelry cleaner. Both of these methods
are likely to damage the outer layer of the pearl.
Pearl Maintenance Tips
Pearls
are commonly passed down to become a treasured family heirloom.
Make sure your pearls last long enough to achieve heirloom status by following
these maintenance tips:
1. Last
on, first off. Pearls should be the final touch to your
outfit. Avoid applying makeup, hairspray, lotion or perfume once your pearls
are on.
2. Store
them flat. While it's perfectly acceptable for most
necklaces to be hung on a cute jewelry rack, your pearl strands should not be.
Store pearl necklaces flat to prevent them from stretching.
3. Dedicate
a space just for your pearls. Soft pearls are prone to
scratches, so store them separately in fabric-lined compartments.
4. Wear
your pearls often. Pearls do best in a moist environment,
so wearing them frequently keeps them from drying out. Easiest. Advice.
Ever.
Trust Jewelers Mutual to protect your clients’ jewelry. Provide a quick and
easy quote with Jewelers Mutual at jewelry.bigimarkets.com.
Coverage offered by a member insurer of the
Jewelers Mutual Group, either Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, SI (a stock
insurer) or JM Specialty Insurance Company. Policyholders of both
insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Coverage and pricing
are subject to underwriting review and approval, and to policy terms and
conditions.