How to clean Tahitian pearls?

Owners of Tahitian cultured pearls must bear in mind that pearls are produced by a living organism. They contain calcareous crystals that are sensitive to chemicals and acids. They also contain water and protein and may dry out and crack if not properly taken care of. That's why it is recommended that pearls be dampened from time to time in lightly salted water. It is also why they should never be wrapped in cotton or wool because the heat generated would add to the risk of drying out, threatening to turn the pearls brown. Since pearls are not as hard as precious stones, they should not be stored in direct contact with other pieces of jewelry, which may scratch them. Also to be avoided is contact between the pearls and dishwashing liquid and acidic products, such as hair spray, perfume, and vinegar and lemon juice. When the moment comes to put pearls away for the night, owners should make it a habit of rinsing and drying them off. You may even polish them with a soft cloth containing a drop of olive oil so that they maintain their luster and do not dry out.