Home >> Science & Nature >> Science

How to Care for a Freshly Harvested Pearl From an Oyster

Pearls are often referred to as the jewels of the sea and convey the right balance of delicate and powerful. Women looking to dress for success can add a string of pearls to their wardrobe as a symbol of achievement. Pearls are very soft and need special care. From the time they are harvested to the point they are strung together to make a necklace, pearls require proper care to maintain their luster and shine.

Things You'll Need

Water
Sand
Soft cloth
Oyster knife

Instructions

- 1
  Open the oyster using an oyster knife and extract the pearl. If you do not have an oyster knife, use a dull butter knife.
- 2
  Rinse the pearl with warm water.
- 3
  Dry the pearl with a clean, soft cloth.
- 4
  Toss the pearl in a mixture of 1 cup of sand and 2 cups of water to polish and bring out its luster.
- 5
  Wrap the pearl in a soft cloth and store in a cool, dry place. If you have a string of pearls, be sure to wipe down the pearls after each wear.

Science