Freshwater pearls
Remember that your pearls are living gems from the sea and should be treated differently to other hard-stones such as diamonds and gemstones.
Most pearls are strung on silk, the thread of which will deteriorate over time and become dirty. Pearl are best re-strung every couple of years unless they are not worn very often. If your pearls become wet, wipe them with a soft damp cloth and dry carefully.
As they come from the sea they need moisture to retain their glow. Store in a soft dry cloth with slightly damp linen if at all possible. This will help them to retain their moisture and prevent them from drying out. Store away from your other jewellery. Make sure you wipe them after wearing them, they must be the last thing on and the first thing off!
It is important to apply make-up, hairspray and perfume etc before you put your pearls on.
All these products and some others can eat away at your pearls nacre (the coating on the pearl). Pearls naturally absorb acid from the skin so if worn daily and not looked after can lose their luster if worn directly next to the skin. Looked after, pearls can be passed down generations.

Other materials cleaning guidelines
Gemstones should be gently cleaned in a solution of mild cleanser, such as hand soap. Do not immerse in water, simply clean with a soft cloth and dry.
Sterling silver can be gently cleaned with a soft cloth and a general silver cleaner which is widely available on the high street. Always ensure it is genuine silver first as plated silver may be damaged by cleaning in this way. If in doubt test an inconspicuous area.
Gold vermeil/Gold fill jewellery should also be cleaned with a metal cleaner suitable for use. Please check manufacturers instructions.
These are guidelines only and to be followed with caution. Diversity In Style cannot be held responsible for any damaged caused. If in doubt seek advice from your local jewellers or have them professionally cleaned.

INFORMATION ON THE MATERIALS USED IN DIVERSITY IN STYLE DESIGNS

All gemstones are purchased from reputable suppliers. I like to put as much information as possible in my descriptions so you know what you are purchasing. Freshwater pearls are very different in many ways to synthetic, I do use both and again it will be stipulated. Swarovski glass pearls are equally beautiful to freshwater. If you have any queries at all please do not hesitate to contact me. All vintage is exactly that! If an item says 'deadstock' this means I have purchased it 'as new', in it's original expected condition.
These are lucky finds so please expect some wear and tear although usually minimal to other items not stating 'deadstock'. It all adds to the vintage charm and feel!
The vast majority of my designs are made using gold vermeil, gold fill and sterling silver.
Some of my budget designs are made using plated metal - but in line with EU directives - are low in nickel content. If you are allergic to plated metal then I can exchange them for silver or gold for a small extra charge.
Plated metal is found in a small percentage of my earrings and most of the vintage items. I shall be ceasing to work with plated metals in earwires, clasps etc in 2009.

It is standard silver that you see in all the shops. Some of my pieces are hallmarked and some aren't. This is because it is very difficult to hallmark items such a jump rings and headpins! If it is sold as sterling silver then you can be assured it is. I also use other types of silver such as Bali silver and Hilltribe, these are handmade items and often up to 99% pure silver. The designs are quite remarkable. The Thai KarenHill Tribe makes a living from the silver work. Due to them being handmade some variations may occur.  If you do have any allergy then I would stick with these silvers as opposed to plated metals, although some people coat their earwires with clear nail varnish and find this helps!