Do you have a pearl necklace or bracelet? If so, did you know that your pearls can and should be regularly restrung to protect their beauty and quality?
Stringing pearls is a process by which pearls are carefully threaded onto a silk strand and knotted between each pearl. These knots provide two functions. The first function is practical, in that they keep the pearls from rolling everywhere in the event that the strand breaks. The second function is aesthetic, in that they provide a refined and elegant look by maintaining an appropriate and equal amount of spacing between the pearls.
Over time, however, the silk strand slowly begins to weaken, stretch out, and may even begin to appear dull or dingy from regular wear. These effects not only take away from the beauty of your pearl necklace or bracelet, but they also increase the likelihood of the strand fraying or breaking.
Most experts recommend restringing your pearls every three years or so, depending on their age and their amount of usage. To ensure the longevity of your pearl necklace or bracelet, consider bringing them to an expert and spending a relatively small—yet worthwhile—amount to have them restrung.
Pearls—like diamond rings or other pieces of valuable jewelry—are an investment and should receive proper care. In many cases, pearl necklaces or bracelets are passed down from one generation to the next as symbolic and meaningful family heirlooms. Regardless of whether you received your pearls from your mother or grandmother, or whether your spouse purchased them for you a few years ago, be sure to preserve the beauty and quality of this valuable piece of jewelry through regular restringing.
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