How do I care for my pearls?

Wipe pearls gently with a soft damp cloth after wearing to remove oils and cosmetic residue. Store them flat away from other jewellery to prevent scratching the delicate nacre. Keep pearls away from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and ultrasonic cleaning devices. Periodic restringing by a specialist ensures the silk cord remains secure between each bead.

Are these pearls natural or cultured?

The archive includes both natural and cultured pearls alongside simulated versions. Natural pearls grew organically without human nucleation, while cultured pearls developed around an inserted bead. Certification reports from assay offices or gem laboratories often accompany high-value pieces to confirm origin. Examining the lustre and surface under magnification helps differentiate natural growth from simulated coatings.

What metal is used in the clasps?

Clasps utilise a range of metals including platinum, silver, nine-carat white gold, and eighteen-carat yellow gold. Platinum and white gold commonly house diamond and gemstone settings characteristic of the period. Silver appears frequently in standard and simulated pieces, sometimes paired with enamel or marcasite. Hallmarks and assay marks assist in identifying the specific metal purity.

How do I date an art deco necklace?

Dating relies on stylistic markers such as geometric platinum clasps, symmetrical gemstone arrangements, and documented hallmarks. Pieces span from Edwardian transitions through the nineteen-thirties and later mid-century revivals. Accompanying documentation like assay reports provide precise chronological markers. Material combinations, such as seed pearls with peridots, point towards specific early twentieth-century workshops.