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Pearl Care Guide

Pearls are softer than many gemstones and should be handled gently. Put pearl jewelry on after perfume, hair products, and cosmetics, and wipe it with a clean, very soft cloth after wear.

Routine cleaning

Wipe the pearl with a clean, very soft cloth after each wear.
Use a slightly damp soft cloth for stubborn marks, then dry immediately.
Do not use an ultrasonic or steam cleaner on pearls.
Do not soak pearls in water and do not use chemical jewellery dips.

Storage

Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or a lined compartment.
Keep pearls away from harder jewellery to prevent scratching.
Avoid prolonged heat, direct sunlight, and very dry air.
Do not store pearls in airtight plastic; they benefit from some humidity.

Water, chlorine, and perspiration

Removing pearl jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising is the safer choice. Repeated exposure to water, chlorine, salt, perspiration, soaps, and personal-care products can affect pearls, stringing, adhesives, and plated or filled components. A piece should not be described as waterproof unless that exact product has been tested and documented as such.

Metal and finish

Pearl care and metal care are different tasks. Plated, gold-filled, sterling silver, and solid gold components need different handling, and the product page states the metal and finish for each piece. Follow the product-specific instruction as well as the general guidance above.

When to ask a jeweller

For deeper cleaning, re-stringing, or repair, ask a jeweller familiar with pearls and with the specific metal finish of the piece.