When it comes to elegance and simplicity, a remarkable set of pearl bridal jewellery is the ultimate example. Once the bride wears something as elegant as this, it seems everything is made perfect for that very special day.

Like the other gemstones, pearls are crafted by nature, nurtured by time, and enhanced by age. Produced by mollusks, natural pearls are considered rare and special. That's because nature has its own way of creating this wonderful masterpiece. First, an irritant such as the sand must be formed or must enter a living mollusk; it can be oyster, clam, or mussel. As soon as the irritant enters the mollusks, it then secretes a fluid known as nacre and acts as defense mechanism. This fluid coats the irritant and every layer formed is set on the irritant until such time that a pearl is already formed.

Cultured pearls, on the other hand, are made to support the production of pearls. Natural pearls are hard to find since time and nature are the underlying factors. With cultured pearls, the same process can be made. However, instead of naturally having an irritant such as sand inside the mollusk, irritants are placed intentionally. And as an alternative to sand, a piece of grounded oyster shells are used. Experts say that these shells, when coated with good layers of nacre, will produce larger pearls.

However, it is still no match to the natural pearl especially when the nucleus is evaluated. Since it is just made from grounded oyster shells, cultured pearls have no durable nucleus as compared to the natural ones.

Whether or not your pearl jewellery or your bridesmaid jewellery is made from natural or cultured pearls, the most important thing is that you know how to take care of them after use. Pearls can last a lifetime and can even be part of the family's heirloom. However, when not cared properly, it will wear over time.

Here's how to care for your precious wedding trinket.

1. Be mild in using perfumes

Chemical substances from perfumes or other cosmetics can facilitate the wear and tear of pearls. Even your body's acidity can also put a flaw in your pearls. It is best that you wipe the pearls immediately after contact or clean it with very mild soap.

2. Make it your last item to put on

To avoid contacts on chemical substances found in perfume and other cosmetics, it is best that you wear your pearl jewellery as the last. Make sure that this is also the first item you take off as soon as you arrive home or get ready for bed.

3. Wear it for a special occasion

Pearls are made to enhance a woman's beauty. With the strong life energy embedded in natural pearls, these wonderful creations can boost your energy as well. However, it does not necessarily mean that you can wear your pearl jewellery anytime.

To preserve its quality and durability, always wear them on special occasions. If you are about to be engaged in a very strenuous activity, it is best that you remove them to avoid damage.

4. Wear it often

Even if it seems so special to wear pearls every single day, experts say it is better to do so to preserve the pearl's natural beauty. Hydration from your body's moisture as well as the air that surrounds it are the main factors in keeping the pearls hydrated and well maintained.

5. Keep it on a separate container

To avoid scratch or deterioration, it is best that you keep your pearls in a separate container. In this way, other gemstones like diamond will not have the chance of damaging your precious pearls.

Over time, pearls need moisture as well, so it is best not to keep them locked up in your vault or any tightly closed container.

It is very important to learn how to maintain the lustrous beauty of pearls. You'll never know that your grandchild might even wear the same set of jewelleries when she gets married someday.

Jo is an author and publisher for 'Girls Love Pearls' (http://www.girls-love-pearls.co.uk), a certified pearl bridal jewellery business based in Middle England. If you are searching for high quality yet fairly priced custom-made pearl jewellery to complement your wedding dress or require the assistance of jewellery specialists who can offer top quality, made to order bridesmaid jewellery then you should have a look at Girls Love Pearls.