Pearls are organic gemstones — softer than diamonds (Mohs 2.5-4.5 vs diamond 10) and sensitive to chemicals. With proper care, they last generations. With careless wear, they dull and can crack within years.

The fundamentals

• Last on, first off — apply perfume, lotions, and makeup before putting on pearls; remove pearls before showering, swimming, or any chemical exposure.
• Wipe after each wear — use a soft cloth slightly dampened with water. Never use harsh cleaners or alcohol-based wipes.
• Store flat — never hang pearl necklaces long-term; gravity stretches the silk thread.
• Restring every 2-3 years — for daily-wear pearl necklaces; every 5-7 years for occasional wear.

What damages pearls

Avoid	Why
Perfume, hair spray	Alcohol dissolves nacre over time, dulling luster permanently
Lotions, sunscreen	Oils and chemicals coat nacre, reducing reflection
Chlorine, salt water	Strips nacre layers progressively; pool water is especially harmful
Ultrasonic cleaners	Vibration cracks nacre layers
Steam cleaners	Heat and moisture damage nacre and silk thread
Makeup, hair products	Chemical residue dulls luster over time
Plastic bags	Trap moisture, can react with nacre
Long-term hanging	Stretches silk thread, weakening necklace structure

How to clean pearls

1. Wipe gently with a soft cloth slightly dampened with water (no soap)
2. For deeper cleaning, use a cloth dampened with mild dish soap solution, then wipe with clean water
3. Never submerge pearls or use ultrasonic cleaners
4. Lay flat to dry, never hang wet

How to store pearls

• Soft pouch or fabric-lined box, separated from harder jewelry that could scratch
• Avoid plastic bags (trap moisture, react with nacre)
• Lay flat for necklaces (no hanging)
• Keep at room temperature; avoid drastic temperature changes

Restringing

For daily-wear necklaces: every 2-3 years. For occasional wear: every 5-7 years. Signs that restringing is needed: silk thread visibly soiled, pearls rolling or clicking, knots loosening. Always have professional restringing done — knot between every pearl with quality silk.

Browse pearl-friendly accessories

• Loose Tahitian pearls for restringing custom strands
• Detailed pearl cleaning guide
• Pearl storage guide

Frequently asked questions

Can I shower with pearl jewelry?

No. Hot water, soap, shampoo, and conditioner all damage nacre over time. Remove all pearl jewelry before showering.

How often should I clean my pearls?

Wipe with a soft cloth after each wearing (30 seconds). Deep clean with mild soap and water every 6-12 months for daily-wear pieces.

Will my pearls turn yellow over time?

High-quality pearls with thick nacre (South Sea, Tahitian AAA) retain color for decades. Lower-grade or thin-nacre pearls can yellow if exposed to chemicals or improperly stored.

Can pearls be repaired if cracked?

Generally no. A cracked pearl is structurally compromised. Some surface scratches can be polished by specialists, but deep cracks require pearl replacement.

Is it safe to swim with pearls?

No. Pool chlorine, salt water, and even fresh water with chlorine residue all damage nacre. Always remove pearls before any water activity.