Pearl Care Guide: How to Keep Your Pearl Jewelry Beautiful for Years

Pearls are unique among gemstones. Unlike minerals formed in the earth, pearls are organic and require gentle handling to maintain their natural luster. With proper care, freshwater pearl jewelry can remain beautiful for generations.

Why Pearls Need Special Care

Pearls are composed of layers of nacre, a material that is softer and more porous than traditional gemstones. This means pearls can be affected by chemicals, dryness, and abrasion more easily than metals or stones.

Proper care protects their shine, surface quality, and longevity.

Put Pearls On Last

Perfume, hairspray, lotions, and cosmetics can dull or damage pearls over time. Apply beauty products first, allow them to dry, then put on your pearl jewelry as the final step when getting ready.

Avoid Contact with Chemicals

Remove pearl jewelry before:

  • Swimming in pools or the ocean

  • Showering or bathing

  • Cleaning or using household chemicals

  • Exercising heavily

Chlorine, salt, and cleaning agents can weaken nacre and damage the pearl surface.

Clean Pearls Gently After Wearing

After each wear, wipe pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove oils, sweat, or residue. This simple step helps maintain their natural glow.

Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning, or harsh jewelry solutions.

Store Pearls Properly

Pearls should be stored separately from harder jewelry to prevent scratching.

Best storage practices:

  • Store in a soft pouch or fabric-lined jewelry box

  • Avoid airtight plastic bags, which can dry pearls out

  • Keep them slightly cushioned rather than tightly compressed

Pearls benefit from occasional wear, as natural skin moisture helps preserve their nacre.

Restring Pearl Necklaces and Bracelets

If you wear pearl strands often, consider restringing them every 1–2 years. Silk thread can stretch or weaken over time, and restringing prevents accidental breakage. Knots between pearls also protect them from rubbing against each other.

Travel Tips

When traveling, carry pearl jewelry in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches and impact damage.

Final Thoughts

Pearls are meant to be worn and enjoyed, not stored away. With gentle handling and simple maintenance, freshwater pearl jewelry can remain luminous and elegant for decades.

Consistent, careful care ensures each piece continues to tell its story for years to come.