When it’s shiny and new, there are few materials as eye-catching as sterling silver. The substance pairs perfectly with pearls, especially in the case of tasteful teardrop earrings. By its very nature, sterling silver tarnishes over time. That’s not a cause for concern, however. By following a few easy steps, you can restore the glitz and splendor to the metal, making it look as attractive as it looked on the day the earrings were purchased.
Begin by placing a layer of aluminum foil at the bottom of a heat-proof dish with the shiny side facing up. Place the silver hoop earrings on top of the foil and add a tablespoon of baking soda. You’ll then need to cover the jewelry with boiling water. Then sit back and observe as the tarnish is attracted to the aluminum foil, leaving the sterling silver as clean as a whistle.
The value of a pearl depends very much on its shape. Whether it’s a black pearl necklace, a freshwater pearl bracelet or a pair of pearl drop earrings; a pearl’s form matters quite a bit. There are six types of shapes common to pearls:
Round: This is the shape most people think of when imagining a pearl. Perfectly round pearls are quite rare and are the most expensive. For hundreds of years many people around the world have thought the round pearl the most beautiful.
Near round: These are closest in relation to the coveted round pearl, but are imperfect in their shapes. Many times these pearls are more spherical than round in shape.
Oval: Many experts call these pearls “symmetrical”. The ends of oval pearls are narrower than the centers.
Drop: These pearls have teardrop or pear shapes. Because of their elongated shape drop pearls make nice earrings or pendants.
Button: These pearls are shaped just like their names. Often the flattened side of the jewel is secured to an earring setting.
Baroque: These may be the least valuable in the pearl family, but they are also the most unique. They come in irregular shapes and sizes and are crafted into affordable jewelry.