Nacre, or mother-of-pearl, is the substance secreted by oysters to create pearls. This unique material surrounds an irritant within the oyster, and a pearl is formed. Pearls exhibit a brilliant and delightful interference of light, resulting in iridescent colors (called the orient) of luster and color. Pearls are also soft and porous compared to other popular gems, can be easily scratched, and require special care. Pearls are also susceptible to damage from chemicals and heat, so perfumes, cosmetics and hair care products should be applied before putting on pearls, and they should not be applied to areas of the body that your pearls can touch. Be sure to blow-dry your hair before putting on pearl jewelry.

There are many varieties of pearls; freshwater, saltwater, natural, cultured, even river pearls. Pearl shapes can be round, baroque (irregular), coin shape, biwa, stick, and other interesting shapes. The freshwater variety produces a wide range of colors, both natural and dyed. These factors greatly influence the price of freshwater pearls, so be sure to ask if the color is natural. Some saltwater varieties are Tahitian (larger black), and South Seas (larger white and golden).

There are several points to remember concerning the care of your pearls.

1) The chemicals in pools, hot tubs and even in tap water can be too harsh and damaging for pearls. Never swim, wash dishes, or shower while wearing pearls.

2) Store pearl jewelry separately from other jewelry. Metals and other harder gemstones can scratch pearls. They are best stored in a soft cloth pouch or lined jewelry box.

3) Do not store pearls in plastic as Nacre is an organic material that needs to breathe.

4) Restring pearl necklaces periodically, depending on how often they are worn. They definitely need to be restrung when the knots are discolored or the necklace appears stretched.

5) One easy rule to remember, “Pearls are the last thing you put on, and the first thing you take off.” If you follow this rule, you’ll enjoy your pearls for many years.

6) Most experts recommend silk thread for pearl necklaces, but nylon is also considered acceptable. The string should be knotted between each pearl. This prevents all the pearls in a strand from scattering should a break occur. Knotting also prevents the pearls from rubbing against each other, which can damage nacre.

7) Did you know it’s actually useful to wear your pearls often? The body's natural oils are beneficial to pearls and actually increase a pearl’s luster and beauty. Pearls are yet another one of God’s amazing creations, and proof that nature created the pearl for human adornment and enjoyment.