Pearls are delicate, natural gemstones that require gentle care to preserve their beautiful luster and smooth surface. Unlike many mineral gemstones, pearls are more sensitive to scratches, chemicals, and everyday products such as perfumes, lotions, and cosmetics. Proper care helps maintain their natural beauty while also protecting the metal settings, wirework, and other components of your jewelry.
Everyday habits
A few simple habits can help preserve the natural beauty and luster of your pearls. Apply perfumes, hairsprays, lotions, and cosmetics before putting on your jewelry, allowing products to dry completely to minimize direct contact. After wearing, gently wipe your pearls with a soft, clean cloth to remove natural skin oils, perspiration, and everyday residue.
Remove pearl jewelry before swimming, showering, exercising, cleaning, or sleeping to protect it from moisture, chemicals, and unnecessary friction. Avoid allowing pearls to rub against other jewelry or hard surfaces, as this can gradually scratch their delicate finish. With thoughtful everyday care, your pearls can retain their beautiful luster for many years.
How to clean pearls
Pearls require gentle cleaning to preserve their natural luster and delicate surface. Before cleaning, place your jewelry on a soft towel and check for any loose components or signs of damage. Handle each piece carefully to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on delicate wirework or settings.
For everyday cleaning, gently wipe your pearls with a soft, clean cloth lightly dampened with lukewarm water. If additional cleaning is needed, use a small amount of mild, fragrance-free soap diluted in water, applying it with the cloth rather than directly to the jewelry. Avoid soaking or scrubbing, as excessive moisture and friction can damage sensitive components.
Remove any soap residue with a separate, lightly dampened cloth, then gently blot dry. Allow your jewelry to dry completely at room temperature before wearing or storing it.
Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on pearl jewelry. Avoid harsh chemicals, including bleach, ammonia, vinegar, and lemon juice, as well as toothpaste, abrasive polishing compounds, and jewelry cleaning dips. These products and methods can damage the pearl’s delicate surface, diminish its natural luster, or affect surrounding metal components.
How to store pearl jewelry
Proper storage helps protect the delicate surface and natural luster of your pearls. Keep pearl jewelry in a soft, clean pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box, preferably in a separate compartment to prevent contact with harder gemstones, metal edges, and other pieces that could cause scratches.
Lay necklaces flat or arrange them loosely to prevent tangling and unnecessary tension on delicate connections. Store earrings carefully so that posts, clasps, and other metal components do not press against the pearls.
Choose a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and sudden temperature changes. While pearls should always be completely dry before storage, prolonged exposure to extremely dry conditions can also affect their natural beauty. Avoid airtight storage with strong moisture-absorbing products, and use only anti-tarnish materials confirmed to be safe for pearls.
