ASK MS. ELITOU:  Can I polish my pearls with toothpaste?

Hello Ms. Elitou! I was given my Grandmother’s pearls as an anniversary gift and I want to make them look as new as I can. I want to polish them with toothpaste like my other jewelry but I am not sure if they would be safe if I did that. What are your thoughts?

-Aliza W.

Hi Aliza! Thank you for reaching out! I am very happy that you asked this question because I believe many have the same thought when it comes to cleaning pearls.

The answer is NO! It is very important to not use toothpaste on pearls, turquoise, vintage Bakelite, or vintage rhinestones, because they have softer surfaces and may get scratched. read more

FASHIONISTO OF THE DAY IN PEARLS: Andre Judd

It is always amazing for us to share a daring Fashionisto wearing pearls– and this is your lucky day! This Fashionisto was chosen as our “Fashionisto of the Day in Pearls” because he made use of his extreme style by wowing us. Check out the beautiful artsy headpiece with pearl detailing!

Andre Judd, blogger of The Avant Gardien, showed off his bold style with a beautiful Copper Headpiece accented with Pearls by Van Cleefus, a Copper Silk Taffeta Couture Jacket by Jan Garcia, black skinny pants and platform boots. read more

CELEBRITIES IN PEARLS: Pharrell Williams Wears Hand-Painted Karl Lagerfeld Sweatshirt with Pearls

‘Happy’ singer, Pharrell Williams sure has become known for his quirky and unique style (and large hats) and he did not disappoint as he walked the streets wearing a fashion statement trend—pearls!

The music genius looked in vogue with a custom made Karl Lagerfeld sweatshirt which showcases the words “Chanel” hand-painted by the legend Karl Lagerfeld himself, along with trendy jeans, Chanel belt, oversized hat, cat-eye glasses, Ugg-type boots, and for an accent piece, a long pearl necklace (slightly hidden under his top). read more