The best way to care for pearl jewellery is to wipe it gently with a soft, clean cloth after every wear, keep it away from perfume, hairspray and cleaning products, and store it separately from harder jewellery. Thorough washing is rarely necessary. What matters most is regular, gentle care and minimising friction and contact with chemicals.
This guide complements the general guide to choosing pearl jewellery and will help you create a simple care routine at home.
Why do pearls need gentler care?
A pearl’s surface is made of layers of nacre, so its care differs from that of many metal or hard-gemstone pieces. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), pearls have a hardness of about 2.5 on the Mohs scale, which means many harder everyday materials can scratch them. GIA also notes that acids, high heat and products such as perfume, cosmetics and hairspray can damage pearls. The goal is therefore not stronger cleaning, but more careful wear.
What should you do after every wear?
After removing the jewellery, gently wipe the pearls with a very soft, dry or barely damp clean cloth. This removes traces of skin oils, perspiration and cosmetics from the surface. Even if your pearl necklace or pearl earrings look clean, a few seconds of wiping helps prevent residue from building up.
- Hold the piece by its metal elements or thread and avoid rubbing the pearls against one another.
- Use a clean microfibre, cotton or another very soft cloth.
- Make sure the jewellery is dry before placing it in its box.
How should you clean pearls that are more noticeably soiled?
If a cloth alone is not enough, GIA recommends occasionally using warm water with a small amount of mild soap. Dampen a soft cloth and carefully wipe each pearl; there is no need to soak the jewellery for a long time. Remove any soap residue with another barely damp cloth, then leave the piece to dry naturally on a soft towel.
If the pearls are strung on thread, do not wear the necklace until the thread is completely dry. Damp thread can stretch, while dirt can collect more easily around drill holes and knots.
What should you avoid when cleaning pearls?
- Ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
- Abrasive pastes, toothpaste, baking soda or scouring powders.
- Vinegar, acidic solutions, bleach or household cleaning products.
- Hard brushes and rough sponges.
If a piece combines pearls, metal and other stones, do not choose a stronger cleaner just for the metal. The safest approach is to care for the piece according to its most delicate component – the pearls – or to consult a professional jeweller.
How should pearl jewellery be stored?
For longer storage, place pearls separately in a soft pouch or a fabric-lined compartment. Harder metals, chains and gemstones can scratch their surface, so avoid dropping all your jewellery into one pile. GIA advises against storing pearls in very hot or extremely dry conditions.
A mother-of-pearl jewellery dish can be convenient for short-term use, such as when removing earrings in the evening. For longer storage, however, separate pearls from other jewellery and prevent metal elements from rubbing against their surface.
When should you remove pearl jewellery?
Put your jewellery on only after cosmetics, cream, perfume and hairspray have been applied and allowed to dry. Remove pearls before showering, swimming, exercising, doing housework and sleeping. This reduces contact with chlorine, cleaning products, perspiration and mechanical friction.
If perfume or another product reaches the pearls, do not wait until the next wear. Carefully wipe the surface with a soft, barely damp cloth and leave it to dry.
How should you care for necklace thread and clasps?
Periodically inspect the areas near the clasp, the spaces between pearls and the knots. If the thread has darkened, stretched, started to fray or developed unusually large gaps between pearls, ask a specialist to inspect and, if necessary, restring the necklace. GIA notes that thread can wear over time; knots between pearls help reduce loss if it breaks.
A metal clasp can be wiped gently on its own, but take care not to get metal-cleaning products on the pearls or thread.
Quick pearl-care checklist
- Wipe pearls with a soft cloth after wearing them.
- Apply perfume and cosmetics before putting on the jewellery.
- Store pearls separately from harder jewellery.
- Do not use steam, ultrasound, acids or abrasives.
- Regularly inspect the thread, knots and clasp.
Frequently asked questions
Can pearls be washed with water?
Yes. Occasionally, they can be carefully wiped with a soft cloth dampened with warm soapy water. Do not soak strung pearls for a long time, and wait until the thread is completely dry before wearing them.
Can pearls be cleaned with toothpaste or baking soda?
No. These substances are abrasive and can scratch or dull the nacre surface.
Can pearls be stored with other jewellery?
It is better to keep them separate. A soft pouch or an individual box compartment protects pearls from harder metals and stones.
How can I tell whether pearls are real?
Care does not confirm a pearl’s origin. To understand why the “tooth test” alone is not enough, read our guide on how to tell whether pearls are real.
A gentle routine helps jewellery last longer
Pearls do not require a complicated ritual. A soft cloth, separate storage and mindful wear are the most important steps. If you are looking for jewellery whose care can fit easily into everyday life, explore the Gintaute Val necklace collection.
These care recommendations are based on the GIA pearl-care guidelines. If a piece is damaged or heavily soiled, consult a professional jeweller.
