Pearl Jewellery Care Guide — How to Keep Pearls Shiny and Last Longer
The Complete Pearl Jewellery Care Guide
Pearls have been loved and treasured for centuries — and honestly, it's not hard to see why. There's something timeless about them that never goes out of style.
If you're reading this, chances are you own a pearl piece, or you're about to. Either way, this guide is for you. Caring for pearls doesn't have to be complicated, but there are a few things worth knowing — because the right habits will keep your pearls radiant and beautiful for many, many years.
This guide covers all pearl jewellery types: earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings.
Why Pearl Jewellery Needs Special Care
Pearls are organic gems — they're produced by living creatures, which makes them fundamentally different from stones or metals. That's also what makes them so special. But it does mean they're more sensitive than most jewellery materials.
Water, alcohol, chemicals, moisture, and extreme temperatures can all dull their surface, weaken their structure, and, over time, cause some real damage. The good news is that with a few simple habits, pearl jewellery care is very manageable — and your pieces will reward you for it.
Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls — Does It Matter for Care?
Slightly. Saltwater pearls tend to have a thicker nacre layer, which makes them marginally more resilient. But both freshwater and saltwater pearls require the same gentle approach. Treat them equally well, and they'll both look beautiful.
Pearl Care Tips: The Essentials
Keep Pearls Away from Water
It might seem ironic — pearls come from water, after all — but prolonged contact with water is one of the most common causes of pearl damage. Tap water, seawater, and pool water (especially chlorinated) can all dull their lustre, weaken the string or wire, and cause structural damage over time.
Take your pearls off before swimming, showering, washing dishes, or any activity where they might get wet.
Perfume, Cosmetics and Chemicals Are a Pearl's Enemy
This is a big one. Perfume, hairspray, sunscreen, hand cream, and cleaning products all contain chemicals that can damage the surface of a pearl and strip its natural shine. The rule is simple: pearls go on last. Get fully dressed, apply your makeup, perfume, and SPF — then put on your pearls.
If you're applying perfume near your neck or ears, shield your pearls with your hand.
Protect Them from Stains
Colouring agents — hair dye, paint, certain makeup products — can permanently stain pearls. Unlike metals, pearls can't be polished back to their original state once stained. So if you're dyeing your hair or doing anything with strong pigments, take your pearls off first.
Avoid Knocks and Scratches
Pearls are softer than most other jewellery materials, which makes them prone to scratching. Avoid wearing them alongside metal pieces that could knock against them. And as tempting as it is to sleep in a favourite necklace — don't. Pearls can scratch, snag, or even break while you sleep.
Extreme Temperatures and Humidity? Not Ideal
Pearls aren't fans of extremes. Saunas, ski trips, very hot or very humid climates — all of these can affect them.
When in doubt, it is better to leave your pearls at home.
Pearl Jewellery Maintenance
Store Pearls Properly
How you store your pearls matters just as much as how you wear them.
A few guidelines:
- This is most important - store pearls separately from other jewellery, especially metals and stones, to prevent scratching.
- Use soft, breathable pouches — satin, velvet, or silk are ideal.
- Avoid plastic bags and airtight containers. Pearls need a little airflow to stay hydrated (yes, really — they can dry out).
- Keep them away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and humid environments.
- If your pearl necklace or bracelet is woven or knotted, store it flat to avoid stretching, in a dedicated box for pearls at its best.
Wear Pearls Regularly
Here's the nice part: wearing your pearls is actually good for them. Natural skin oils gently polish the surface and help maintain their glow. So don't save them only for special occasions — wear them and enjoy them. Just make sure to clean them after wearing, when you were sweating, when it rained or when something extra happened.
Clean Pearls Gently
After wearing your pearls, give them a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth to remove sweat, skin oils, and any residue. That's really all you need for regular cleaning. No water, no detergents, no ultrasonic cleaners — just a gentle cloth.
Pearl Care Extras
Check Them Now and Then
Every few weeks, take a moment to look over your pearl pieces. Check for loose clasps, worn threading, or any pearls that feel less secure than they should. Catching small issues early prevents bigger problems later.
Hope this guide helps you in taking care of your pearls. If you have any questions, you can always send me a message.
Written by Julia Z. / Stones and Stuff Stockholm — handmade jewellery and accessories, made with upcycled pearls, stones and crystals in a studio outside Stockholm.