Genuine pearls have a beauty all of their own. Their soft lustre, natural shapes and little differences make every pearl unique.
Unlike many gemstones, pearls are formed by living molluscs, so they need a little more care. The good news is that looking after your pearl jewellery doesn't have to be complicated.
A few simple habits can help keep your favourite pieces beautiful for years to come.
Put your pearls on last
This is one of the easiest ways to protect pearl jewellery.
Perfume, hairspray, moisturiser, makeup and other cosmetic products can affect a pearl's surface over time. Put your jewellery on after you've finished getting ready, once your skin products have dried.
When you're ready to take your jewellery off, remove your pearls first.
It might seem like a small detail, but it can help reduce unnecessary contact with chemicals and cosmetics.
Clean pearls gently after wearing
Pearls can collect traces of skin oils, sweat and everyday dirt. After wearing your jewellery, gently wipe each piece with a soft, clean cloth.
If it needs a little more cleaning, use a cloth slightly dampened with plain water and gently wipe away any residue. Allow the jewellery to dry completely before storing it.
Avoid scrubbing, rough cloths and abrasive cleaners. Pearls have a relatively delicate surface, and harsh cleaning can damage their lustre.
For a more detailed walkthrough, read the full guide on how to clean pearls safely.
A simple rule: gentle cleaning is best.
Keep pearls away from chemicals
Pearls are sensitive to acids and many household chemicals. Everyday products that seem harmless can damage them over time.
Avoid exposing your pearl jewellery to:
- Perfume and hairspray.
- Cleaning products and detergents.
- Vinegar, lemon juice and other acidic substances.
- Chlorinated swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Soap, shampoo and shower products.
Remove pearl jewellery before swimming, bathing, showering, exercising, or doing household cleaning.
If your pearls accidentally come into contact with a product, gently wipe them with a soft cloth and seek advice if you notice any change to the surface.
If your piece includes natural stones, it is also worth knowing what can damage natural stones, as some materials have different sensitivities to chemicals and moisture.
Store pearls separately
Pearls can be scratched by harder gemstones, metal edges, and other jewellery when pieces rub together.
Store your pearl necklaces, bracelets and earrings separately in a soft pouch or a jewellery box with individual compartments.
Avoid leaving them loose in a drawer or handbag, where they can tangle or get knocked against other items.
Pearls also shouldn't be kept in an excessively hot or very dry environment. A normal indoor environment away from direct sunlight and heat is generally suitable.
And one more thing: avoid storing pearls in an airtight container for long periods. They benefit from a comfortable, stable environment rather than exposure to extreme dryness.
Be careful with pearl necklaces
Many pearl necklaces are strung on silk or another specialist thread. The thread can weaken with regular wear, especially when exposed to moisture, sweat and everyday friction.
Avoid pulling your necklace tightly, tugging at knots or wearing it while sleeping.
If you wear a pearl necklace frequently, check the thread occasionally. Signs that it may need attention include stretched gaps between pearls, fraying or visible wear around the knots.
A jeweller who works with pearls can advise whether you need to have it restringed. If you're also thinking about choosing a pearl necklace, it's worth reading about what really matters before you buy. Regularly worn necklaces may need restringing sooner than pieces worn only occasionally.
What about ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners?
It's best to avoid both for pearl jewellery.
Ultrasonic cleaners use vibrations that can damage delicate pearls or loosen settings. Steam cleaning exposes them to heat and moisture that may harm the pearls or other components of the piece.
The same caution applies to harsh jewellery-cleaning dips and chemical solutions unless a qualified professional has confirmed that they are suitable for your particular jewellery.
If your piece combines pearls with sterling silver, gold-filled components or natural stones, remember that each material may have different cleaning requirements. Don't assume that a cleaner suitable for the metal is also safe for the pearls. Read our guide on caring for sterling silver for more on keeping the metal in your jewellery looking its best.
Do all pearls need the same care?
Freshwater, Akoya and Tahitian pearls all benefit from gentle handling, careful cleaning and safe storage.
They can look different, but none should be treated like an ordinary, hard gemstone. Pearls can be damaged by abrasion, chemicals and unsuitable cleaning methods.
Baroque pearls and Keshi pearls have distinctive, often irregular shapes. Natural differences are not necessarily flaws. They are part of what makes each pearl special.
A few things to remember
If you remember only a handful of tips, make them these:
- Put pearl jewellery on after applying perfume and cosmetics.
- Wipe it gently after wearing.
- Keep it away from chemicals, swimming pools and excessive heat.
- Store it separately from other jewellery.
- Check necklace threads and clasps from time to time.
- Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
You don't need expensive products or a complicated routine. Gentle, consistent care is usually enough for everyday maintenance.