Pearls are organic gems. Unlike diamonds or gold, they were made by a living creature, layer by layer — and that is exactly why they need a little more love than the rest of your jewelry box. The good news: caring for pearl jewelry is simple once you know the rules. Here are seven practical tips to keep your pearl necklaces and bracelets glowing for years.
1. Store your pearls in a soft pouch
Pearls are softer than most gemstones and metals, which means they scratch easily when they rub against other jewelry. Store each pearl piece separately in a soft fabric pouch. Avoid airtight plastic bags: pearls contain a small amount of moisture and need to breathe.
2. Keep perfume and sunscreen away from your pearls
The golden rule of pearl jewelry: last on, first off. Put your necklace on after applying perfume, hairspray, sunscreen or lotion, and take it off before you remove your makeup. The alcohol and chemicals in cosmetics attack the nacre — the delicate layers that give a pearl its glow.
3. Clean with a soft, dry cloth
After wearing, wipe your pearls gently with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Never use jewelry cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, steam or abrasive cloths on pearls — these are designed for hard gemstones and will damage nacre. For our pieces with 14k gold filled clasps, the same soft cloth keeps the metal bright too.
4. Store pearls away from other jewelry
Chains, clasps and faceted stones are the natural enemies of a pearl's smooth surface. Give your pearls their own compartment or pouch, and never toss them loose into a handbag or travel case.
5. Wear your pearls regularly
Pearls actually benefit from being worn. The subtle natural oils of your skin keep the nacre hydrated and lustrous. Pearls that sit untouched in a dark box for years can slowly dehydrate and lose their glow. So don't save your pearl necklace for special occasions only.
6. Keep pearls out of the pool and the sea
Chlorine and prolonged salt water exposure are harmful to pearls and can weaken the silk or wire they are strung on. Take your pearl jewelry off before swimming, showering or sauna visits. A splash of rain is no problem — just dry the piece gently afterwards.
7. Check the stringing and restring when needed
If you wear a strung pearl necklace often, check once or twice a year whether the thread is still tight. Having a well-loved necklace professionally restrung every few years is normal maintenance — much better than losing pearls one by one on a night out.
Pearl care in one sentence
Pearls last longest when they are worn often, dressed last, wiped after wearing, and stored soft and separate. Looking for a piece worth caring for? Discover our bestselling handmade pearl jewelry. Free shipping on orders over €200.