Would you like to know the step by step procedures on cleaning pearl jewelry? Read on and you will be very surprised to find how simple it is to take care of pearls.

The first step in the care for pearls is to gently clean them off with a soft damp cloth every time after you've worn them. This will prevent build up by removing dust, dirt, body oils, perspiration, and chemical substances like body creams, makeup and hair products that can damage the surface of the sphere.

The next step in the proper care of pearl jewelry is to do a periodic washing. Periodic washing times will very on how often you wear your precious gifts from the sea.

Buy a plain natural bar of soap, like a castile soap, which you can easily find in a health food store. Also purchase filtered water or distilled water. Many city waters today have high chlorine levels that can be damaging to this sea gem.

To clean a pearl necklace lather up the soap in your hands and gently rub your sea gems in your soapy hands. Pay close attention to the areas around the drill holes where dirt may tend to collect. Rinse thoroughly with pure water. You may even soak them for a bit in pure water before drying them. This procedure also applies to your pearl ring, bracelet or earrings and to the care of mother of pearl jewelry.

After rinsing use a soft cotton towel to dry them off then lay them flat on a dry towel to air dry. Don't move them until they are completely dry. Never hang your wet pearl strands or a string of pearls to dry and don't wear these precious gems when the string is wet. Wet strings stretch and attract dirt which is then hard to remove.

You can use a brush when cleaning but take care to use a very soft, natural bristle brush. Never use a toothbrush, scouring pad or abrasive material of any kind. Never use your brush for any other purpose and always store your brush where it will not become dusty or soiled.

Do not use commercial jewelry cleaners. You can find ones that are recommended for pearls but read the label to make sure they do not have ammonia or vinegar in them. Do not use tarnish removers, toothpaste, ultrasonic cleaners or steam clean your sea jewels.

Your treasured spheres will naturally darken slightly and yellow with age and wear. The golden or creamy tones that come with age cannot be cleaned off.

If your pearl jewelry is very dirty take it to a professional jeweler to be restored. Also, approximately every six months, take your pearl necklace, ring, bracelet and earrings to a professional jeweler for a general maintenance check up. You will need to know if your pearls are still very securely mounted and the string is good and strong.

Now is the time to take action and start following these simple steps towards the proper care for pearls. Caring does make a difference. These are organic gems, nature's perfect gift to you. Given a little bit of gentle attention and your most precious gifts from the sea will reward you for years to come with their lustrous beauty