I have a necklace pearl given to me as a gift by my friend. I really treasure it because it has a sentimental value. That is why I make sure I care for it. The best way I care for it is I wear it – as the natural oils from the skin will keep them moisturized. I think the worst thing I can do for it is put them on before I have done my hair: A spritz of hairspray can hurt the luster of your pearls ( the same goes for perfume). And though it may seem counter-intrusive,I don’t wear pearls in the shower or while swimming, even in the ocean – both chlorinated and salt water will harm them. I Polish pearls only with a soft cloth, never professional jewelry cleaning products, which are too harsh for them.