Pearls

Different kinds of pearls

Due to its large size, it is likely that the shiny pearl in the Girl with a Pearl Earring is made of glass. Glass pearls are an alternative for natural pearls that are harvested by pearl divers or pearl farmers. There are also synthetic pearls. Pearls are shaped by mollusks, particularly oysters. They often have a round shape, but since it is an organic product, it is also possible for the shape to be irregular. These whimsical shapes are particularly popular within the Art Nouveau style. A pearl exists of nacre. Besides white pearls, there are also pink pearls, grey pearls and black pearls. Pearls are inextricably connected with the antique style. Pearls have exuded wealth and pureness for centuries.

Maintenance and protection of pearls

At Antique Style Web Store there are various pieces of jewellery with pearls: rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and brooches. Pearls are vulnerable and deserve a certain amount of attention when it comes to maintaining and protecting them. The following tips can be used to make sure you can enjoy your pearl jewellery for a long period of time:

- Avoid spraying perfume or hair spray on the pearls

- Avoid using hand soap and washing detergents, so make sure to take off the pearl jewellery when you are washing your hands. - Avoid the pearls coming in contact with cosmetics/makeup. If this happens, clean the pearls with a soft cloth after wearing them.

- Do not wear the pearls when showering, swimming in a pool or in natural water. Sunbathing when wearing pearls is also discouraged.

- Wear the pearl jewellery regularly or as often as possible. This will stop the pearls from dehydrating.

- When storing the pearls, make sure that they do not come in contact with other pieces of jewellery. Preferably place them on a soft, velvet fabric (for instance in a jewellery box).