How to Care for Pearls

Following this simple rule is one of the easiest ways to care for pearls and keep them looking their best.

Gently Clean Pearls After Wearing

After wearing your pearls, it is a good idea to gently wipe them with a soft cloth. A slightly damp, soft cloth works well to remove any oils, perspiration, or residue that may have accumulated during the day.

Avoid harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, as pearls have a softer surface than most gemstones. Even mild jewelry cleaning solutions can damage them. When thinking about how to clean pearls properly, the safest method is always gentle care and minimal moisture.

Regular, light cleaning helps maintain the natural beauty of pearls and keeps them looking luminous.

Proper Storage Is Important

Another important part of how to care for pearl jewelry is storing it correctly.

Pearls should always be stored in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box where they are protected from scratches. Because pearls are softer than most gemstones, they can easily be damaged if they rub against harder jewelry pieces such as diamonds or metal settings.

For this reason, it is best not to mix pearls with other jewelry when storing them. Giving them their own soft space helps preserve their surface and prevents unnecessary wear.

Pearls Should Not Be Stored for Too Long

Interestingly, pearls do not enjoy sitting unworn for long periods of time. While many people store valuable jewelry in a safe or safety deposit box, pearls can actually suffer if kept in a very dry environment for too long.

If pearls are left unworn for years in a dry place, they can begin to lose their natural moisture and may develop a yellowish tone. Wearing pearls occasionally helps keep them healthy and maintains their beautiful luster.

So when considering how to care for pearls properly, remember that enjoying them regularly is actually beneficial.

Check the Stringing of Your Pearls

Pearl necklaces and bracelets are usually strung on silk thread, which helps protect the pearls and allows them to move gracefully when worn. Over time, however, this thread can become stretched, dirty, or weakened.

It is important to keep an eye on the condition of the string. If the string appears discolored, loose, or begins to unravel, it may be time to have the pearls restrung.

If pearls are worn often, restringing them every three years is generally recommended. This helps prevent breakage and ensures your pearl necklace remains secure and comfortable to wear.

Professional Pearl Care

While basic pearl care can easily be done at home, professional attention can help extend the life of your jewelry. A jeweler can inspect the pearls, check the stringing, and ensure the clasp and settings remain secure.

At Stittgen Fine Jewelry, we are always happy to help with pearl restringing and general jewelry care. Proper maintenance ensures your pearls continue to be enjoyed and appreciated for many years.

A Final Thought on Caring for Pearls

Pearls are unique among gemstones because they are formed by living organisms. Their beauty is delicate, organic, and timeless. With just a little thoughtful care – wearing them regularly, avoiding chemicals, storing them gently, and maintaining their stringing – your pearls can remain beautifully luminous for generations. 

Understanding how to care for pearls allows you to preserve not only their beauty but also the memories and meaning they often carry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pearl Care

How do you clean pearls safely?

Pearls should be cleaned gently using a soft, slightly damp cloth after wearing them. This helps remove oils, perspiration, and everyday residue. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or abrasive cloths, as pearls have a delicate surface that can easily be damaged.

Is it OK to get pearls wet?

Occasional contact with water will not harm pearls, but they should not be soaked or exposed to chemicals. After wearing pearl jewelry, gently wiping the pearls with a soft cloth helps maintain their natural luster.

How should pearls be stored?

Pearls should always be stored separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. Because pearls are softer than most gemstones, they can easily be scratched if stored with other jewelry pieces.

How often should pearl necklaces be restrung?

If pearls are worn regularly, it is generally recommended that they be restrung every three years. Over time, the silk thread can weaken or stretch, and restringing helps prevent the necklace from breaking.

Why should pearls be worn regularly?

Pearls benefit from the natural oils in your skin, which help maintain their luster and prevent them from drying out. Pearls that are stored for long periods without being worn can sometimes lose their natural glow.