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Antique Pearls - Can they be salvaged?

mollyringwald15mollyringwald15 member
100 Love Its 100 Comments Name Dropper First Anniversary
in Attire & Accessories Forum

Hi Ladies,

My mother has several very precious pearl necklaces that my Grandfather sent to my Grandmother while he was in Japan during the Korean War. My Grandmother rarely wore them because she never had an appropriate occasion, and my basic knowledge of pearls is that they do better when worn somewhat regularly. All the pieces have lost their shine, and look rather dull. Of course we will keep them forever because they are precious memories, but I'm curious if they could be somewhat restored? I have done some research online and haven't really found anything...

I would love to be able to wear a strand during my wedding, and I know it would make my Mom very happy to see them restored. She seems to think this isn't scientifically possible, I'm hoping she's wrong!

Thanks in advance!

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Re: Antique Pearls - Can they be salvaged?

  • CMGragainCMGragain member
    10000 Comments 500 Love Its Fourth Anniversary 25 Answers
    edited October 2014
    You can try rubbing them with a damp chamois.  Check to see if there is any peeling before going over the whole strand.  Pearls are organic, and have a limited lifespan.
    httpiimgurcomTCCjW0wjpg
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  • graciegragraciegra member
    10 Comments 5 Love Its
    Take them to a jeweler who works with pearls and talk to them about options. 
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  • atlastmrsgatlastmrsg member
    500 Love Its 1000 Comments Second Anniversary Name Dropper
    I buy a red jar of cleaner for my rings and earrings.  Next to it, they sell a "delicate" product for pearls and coral.  Nevertheless, I'd take to a jeweler.  If it's a simple cleaning, the place where your engagement ring and/or wedding bands are from may even clean them for free since you're a customer.
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  • CMGragainCMGragain member
    10000 Comments 500 Love Its Fourth Anniversary 25 Answers
    atlastmrsg said:
    I buy a red jar of cleaner for my rings and earrings.  Next to it, they sell a "delicate" product for pearls and coral.  Nevertheless, I'd take to a jeweler.  If it's a simple cleaning, the place where your engagement ring and/or wedding bands are from may even clean them for free since you're a customer.
    The pearl's probably aren't dirty.  The nacre layers have deteriorated with time.  Never use any chemical cleaner with pearls.
    I thought this article was well written:
    http://www.ebay.com/gds/Cleaning-and-Caring-for-Vintage-Pearl-Jewelry-/10000000177633040/g.html



    httpiimgurcomTCCjW0wjpg
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  • mollyringwald15mollyringwald15 member
    100 Love Its 100 Comments Name Dropper First Anniversary
    Thanks ladies. They aren't dirty, and I know they will never look perfect again. I guess my best bet is to take them to a jeweler, and hope I don't get an "Are you serious"? look....
    image
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  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] member
    2500 Comments Fifth Anniversary 500 Love Its 5 Answers

    DO NOT take them to a chain store, find yourself a reputable local mom/pop jewelry store and make sure you have a good feeling about them. I've heard too many horror stories of people taking rings and other pieces to chain stores for repairs only to have them returned in worse condition.

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  • mollyringwald15mollyringwald15 member
    100 Love Its 100 Comments Name Dropper First Anniversary
    Erikan73 said:

    DO NOT take them to a chain store, find yourself a reputable local mom/pop jewelry store and make sure you have a good feeling about them. I've heard too many horror stories of people taking rings and other pieces to chain stores for repairs only to have them returned in worse condition.


    Thanks for the tip, I'll ask around :)
    image
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