PEARL RESTRINGING
Depending on how often you wear your pearls, they should be restrung occasionally. This will help prevent breakage from weakened threads, and will prevent accidents.
If you wear your pearls on a daily basis, it is not unusual to need restringing every year or so. If you wear your pearls on a less frequent basis, restringing every 2-3 years is an average timeframe.
I use both silk and nylon for pearl restringing and knotting but I prefer to use a braided nylon for strength and durability. The finished piece has the same look and drape as silk, but the strand typically lasts MUCH longer. The braided nylon does not fray and stretches MUCH more slowly than silk. In addition, the braided nylon resists dirt, oil and water.
PRICING
Pricing is the same for silk or nylon. Unless specified, I will use the nylon to restring your pearls.
I charge a flat fee for pearls over 6mm. My fee includes all materials (string, gimp, wax) and cleaning of your pearls before starting.
Double and triple strands please add 50% per strand to the price show below:
Pearls under 6mm please add a flat fee of 25% to the price shown below:
Under 10" $20
10-16" $28
16-18" $33
18-30" $38
30-40" $45
40-50" $50
Over 50" is .50 cents per knot
Return shipping is based on actual charges. I ship USPS Priority or USPS Registered/Insured, and will insure the piece for the estimated value. Value is your responsibility!!! I photograph all pieces before starting any work to ensure for accuracy.
I will invoice you once the piece is complete and ship once payment has cleared. I accept paypal or check.
Please contact me if you have a piece that needs to be restrung! askakun@comcast.net In most cases, I can complete your piece in 1-2 days from receipt.
CARING FOR YOUR PEARLS
Cultured pearls should be treated gently and benefit from proper wear and care.
Avoid direct contact with cosmetics, hairspray and perfume, which can damage your pearls. When getting ready, put your pearls on last. Likewise, when undressing, be sure to take them off first. Wipe gently with a damp cloth after each wear and store pearls separately, preferably in a lined jewelry box. This prevents scratching. They can be cleaned by soaking briefly in a standard liquid pearl cleaner, rinsing thoroughly with water and drying with a soft cloth, they laying flat to completely dry. DO NOT hang pearls, especially when wet!!!!