If you want a stylish and elegant accessory for any outfit, then you can't pass up pearls. They're beautiful and glow with their own luster, and as they're reasonably neutral in color they can be worn with almost anything. Unlike most other gems, pearls are very soft, so you need to handle them with care and clean them on a regular basis.

If you want to keep your pearls looking their best, here are a few hints to help you do it without damaging your pearls. Cleaning Your Pearls is important, Firstly, the best way to keep your pearls shining with their natural luster is to clean them with a soft cloth. You should moisten the cloth with water, but never use any type of detergent when cleaning pearls. Pearls are very quick to absorb things like dirt, perfume, and skin oils because they're so soft. It's a good idea to clean your pearls after you've worn them to stop the pearls from absorbing any dirt or grime. How To Store Pearls.

Pearls prefer being stored at moderate temperatures, and can be damaged or lose their sheen if exposed regularly to extreme temperatures. So the glove box of the car is definitely not a place for your pearls on a hot day! Don't store them in a place that might get cold or damp, either, like an attic. Being so soft, pearls scratch very easily, so store them in a box lined with something soft. Or at least wrap them in a soft cloth before you put them away. Most other gemstones, like diamonds, are much harder than pearls, and can give them a nasty scratch if they're jostled together.

If you have to put them in the same box, the pearls must be wrapped up to protect them. Keep chemicals away from pearls, or they will get damaged. Chemicals can erode the pearl's lustrous surface, leaving them dull. So avoid any alcohol based cleaning fluids, or anything with vinegar. It's a good idea to put your pearls on just before you leave, so that you don't accidentally get any makeup or hairspray on them.

Both of these can stain or damage your pearls. As an extra precaution, it might be worth getting your pearl jewelry restrung every year or two. Pearls are often strung on silk thread, and this weakens over time. If you wear your pearls a lot, the constant movement of the pearls can also damage the silk.

Although pearls require some care to keep them at their best, it's definitely worth the effort.

Steve Dolan loves jewelry and pearls in particular. Click on Pearls to find more tips, ticiks and article about pearls and Jewelry for more on jewelry