Title: Caring for Pearls

Pearls are the world's only organic gem and are composed of calcium carbonate. This means special attention is required to ensure pearls will stay beautiful and last a lifetime.

Because pearls are an organic gemstone, they are somewhat different from other gemstones and precious metals. They are softer and more delicate, and they can therefore be more easily scratched, cracked, and damaged. In addition, substances such as perfume and hair spray -- and even natural body oils and perspiration -- can dull pearls' luster or cloud their brilliance. For these reasons, your pearls may require a bit of special care.

Because of their delicacy, pearls should be stored separately, away from hard jewelry items, to prevent scratches or other damage. If possible, store them wrapped in soft cloth or in a soft-lined container, pouch, or jewelry box.

Gently wipe the pearls with a warm, damp cloth to remove body oils or dirt (which may harm the colours) before putting them away.

Wash pearls periodically with mild soap (NOT detergent) and a soft cloth. When finished washing the pearls, rinse them in clean water and wrap them in a thin, damp cotton towel to dry. If the pearls are especially dirty, wipe the pearl with acetone polish remover. Acetone will not hurt pearls. DO NOT use jewellery cleaners with ammonia or vinegar in them.

Title: Caring for silver

Title: Quickest way to clean

In a large bowl (large enough to fit all of the silver you may have), lay down strips of aluminium foil in the bottom of the bowl shiny side up.

Pour boiling water in the bowl. Then add a tablespoon of baking soda.

Place silver in the bowl on top of the aluminium foil strips. The silver must come in contact with the aluminium foil.

Remove silver immediately, rinse well with lukewarm water and dry with a silver cleaning cloth, or a soft cotton or flannel cloth. Synthetic materials can cause scratching.

For quick cleaning, such as removing makeup or light dirt, use a small amount of liquid detergent or soap to about a half cup of warm water. Using your cloth, wipe the solution on the jewellery, then rinse under clean warm water, and dry thoroughly.