Pearl Jewelry Cleaning & Care Instructions
- Pearls are delicate and require gentle care to maintain their natural luster and beauty. Follow these steps to keep your pearl jewelry looking radiant for years to come.
Daily Care
- Last on, first off – Always put your pearl jewelry on after applying makeup, perfume, and lotions, and remove it before bedtime.
- Avoid chemicals – Keep pearls away from harsh chemicals, including hairspray, perfume, and household cleaners, as they can damage the pearl’s surface.
- Wipe after wear – Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe your pearls after each wear to remove natural oils and dirt.
Deep Cleaning (As Needed)
- Prepare a mild solution – Mix lukewarm water with a few drops of gentle, phosphate-free soap (mild dish soap or baby shampoo). Avoid harsh detergents or acidic cleaners.
- Dampen a cloth – Dip a soft microfiber or jewelry cleaning cloth into the solution and gently wipe each pearl. Do not soak pearls, as prolonged exposure to water can weaken the silk thread in pearl necklaces.
- Rinse with a damp cloth – Use a separate damp cloth with plain water to remove any soap residue.
- Air dry completely – Lay pearls flat on a soft towel and let them air dry completely before storing.
Storage Tips
- Store separately – Keep pearls in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones or metals.
- Avoid airtight containers – Pearls need moisture; storing them in a dry, airtight environment can cause them to become brittle over time.
- Lay flat – For pearl necklaces and bracelets, lay them flat rather than hanging to prevent the thread from stretching.
Additional Tips
- Wear often – Natural body oils help maintain pearl luster, so regular wear is beneficial.
- Professional restringing – If you wear a pearl strand frequently, consider having it restrung every one to two years to maintain durability.
By following these simple care instructions, your pearl jewelry will remain luminous and beautiful for generations.