[Bernadette]

I could hardly agree more with Kevin and Caitlin's posts.

When reading these two posts I was reminded of a quotation - " In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is."

In theory Silk should be a near perfect threading material - in practice it falls way short (as well described by Caitlin)

In theory the gold spacers shouldn't be an issue - in practice they can be.

Silk has some marvellous properties - its strength amongst natural fibres is legendary - but - as a threading material its limitations have to be considered - and its usage questioned and weighed up against other materials which have the same\similar\better good properties - and absent the less good ones.

PearlGully - gold actually "scratching" the pearl isn't the issue as I see it - and I don't think the gold in itself is the problem - it could just as easily be silver - brass or any other metal - the same or similar result tends to happen when in rubbing contact with the pearl.

[Pearl Lover]

Hey everyone,

I wrote one other post on this forum about how to care for my pearls but I have been mostly lurking, reading up on all the amazing info I had no idea about! I just wanted to say thank you for all the advice on pearl care. My pearls are doing well and in fact I listened to everyone’s advice about wearing them often…I am wearing them right now.

I did have one question; while looking threw older post about pearl care someone mentioned that sunlight is good for pearls. Is this true? I had never heard that before and I was just wondering.

Thanks!

[pattye]

Don't recall that one. What I vaguely remember is extended periods of direct sunlight on pearls like dark natural purple freshwaters could possibly result in some fading--such as if they were in an exposed store window for long time.

My recollection is that in most cases sunlight would be neither good nor bad. Overtones generally show better in dimmer light.

Bleach plus light is used to lighten pearls in a controlled indoor environment.

Anyone else?

[GemGeek]

Prolonged sunlight isn't a great idea because it can dry out the pearls and a lot of sun can eventually degrade organic material.

[Pearl Lover]

Oh okay thanks so much!