If you're looking for a way to add a bit of bling to your wedding look, consider slipping on a long pave bridal necklace. A lengthy necklace will best enhance a low-cut bridal gown, such as one with a sweetheart neckline. To ensure that the jewelry piece looks its best on the big day and for years after, it's important to properly care for it. 

A pave setting features a series of small precious gemstones, either across a chain or in a specific design, such as a heart or flower. The setting may consist of all one type of stone or a mix of several of them. 

For a traditional bridal look, pick a pave necklace featuring an elegant blend of freshwater pearls and diamonds. It can either be a thin, elegant necklace or a bold statement piece sparkling with many stones. The necklace may feature any type of metal, such as rose, white or yellow gold, or sterling silver. 

Since the jewelry piece contains a mix of stones and metals, you may have to take several different precautions when handling, cleaning, and storing them. For instance, a diamond is known to be one of the hardest materials while pearls are soft and easily dented and scratched. 

Here are some tips for caring for and maintaining your bridal pave necklace before and after the wedding.

1. Handling the Necklace 

Always put the pave necklace on after getting dressed, doing your hair and makeup, and putting on perfume. Hair products and cosmetics, such as lotions, contain chemicals and oils that may damage the gemstones or take away their luster. If you wear the necklace prior to getting dressed or putting on your bridal gown, it could get snagged on fabric or embellishments. 

It's also important to take the necklace off before any type of strenuous activity to avoid getting sweat on it and prior to taking a shower or a dip in a pool or ocean. Chlorine and saltwater can tarnish metals and compromise the gemstones. 

2. Cleaning the Necklace 

Diamonds are hardy and pearls are delicate, but a mixture of warm water and a mild dish detergent will be effective and safe for cleaning both types of stones. Either gently rub the solution over the pave necklace using a clean cloth, such as a chamois, or with a soft toothbrush. Then, pat the jewelry dry with another cloth. Never submerge pearls directly into the water.

At least twice a year, have the necklace professionally cleaned and inspected for loose prongs or gemstones by a jeweler. 

3. Storing the Necklace

Store the bridal necklace flat in a velvet-lined box away from other jewelry pieces. Keeping the necklace too close to other items may result in tarnishing and even scratches or dents. Pearls require moisture to look their best, so avoid storing the necklace in a dry, air-tight location.

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