Since June’s birth stone is pearl, this seems like a good time to talk about how to care for your pearls to keep them their most beautiful. While pearls are resilient and meant to be worn, they’re also somewhat delicate natural substances. Since pearls are porous, they absorb your cosmetics. While you probably wouldn’t wear your pearls in the shower, you might not think about things like how your make-up or sprayables affect pearls. Cosmetics and cleaning agents can eat holes in nacre, the natural, mollusk-produced substance from which pearls are made. Give your lotion a chance to absorb into your throat and chest, and spray on your cologne and hair spray BEFORE putting on that string of pearls. Take off your pearl ring when applying hand lotion. Nor do your pearls want to go to the gym with you. They don’t like sweat! To clean your pearls, use a damp, warm cloth to wipe off dirt and body oils. Over time, dirt can change your pearls’ color. You can use a mild soap to clean pearls, but don’t use detergent. Rinse them in clear water. Dry your pearls by wrapping them in a thin cotton towel. For extra-filthy pearls, use an acetone polish remover. But any products containing vinegar or ammonia can damage pearls. And never put pearls in an Ultrasonic cleaner. Pearls love to be worn. Your skin’s natural oils help keep them from drying out. When you’re not wearing your pearls, store them in a felt or silk pouch or other soft cloth to prevent scratching. They need moisture to prevent cracking, so don’t store your pearls in an airtight plastic bag or anywhere that’s too dry. Frequent pearl wearers should have necklaces restrung every year. Peals should be knotted separately, with silk, if possible, to prevent rubbing. Pearls are more delicate than most other gemstones. But with a little TLC, you’ll enjoy yours for many years.