How to Clean Pearl Jewelry: Care & Tips

Pearls are unlike any other gem you’ll find in a jewelry box. They’re not cut from stone or polished from deep within the earth; they’re born in the sea, formed layer by layer inside oysters and mollusks. That natural origin gives pearls their soft glow and organic charm, but it also makes them far more delicate than diamonds or sapphires.

If you own a pearl necklace, bracelet, or earrings, you’ve probably noticed how easily they pick up fingerprints, makeup, or even just the natural oils from your skin. The good news? With a bit of gentle care, your pearls can stay luminous for a lifetime. Let’s explore the safest and most effective ways to clean pearl jewelry at home without risking its surface or shine.

Why Pearls Need Special Care

Unlike most gemstones formed deep in the earth, pearls are organic treasures created inside oysters and mollusks. Their surface, known as nacre, is delicate and porous, making pearls more vulnerable to scratches, chemicals, and prolonged contact with water.

This means that traditional jewelry cleaning methods, such as ultrasonic cleaners or harsh solutions, can do more harm than good. Instead, pearls thrive with gentle, mindful care.

The Best Way to Clean Pearl Jewelry

Cleaning your pearls doesn’t require fancy equipment. In fact, less is more when it comes to caring for pearl jewelry. Here’s the step-by-step process recommended by experts:

Wipe after every wear

Use a soft, lint-free cloth (like microfiber or cotton) to wipe away oils, sweat, or residue gently. This prevents buildup that dulls the luster.

Use mild soap and water occasionally

When a deeper clean is needed, dampen a soft cloth with lukewarm water and add a drop of mild dish soap. Wipe each pearl individually, being careful not to soak the strand.

Dry with care

Lay the jewelry flat on a towel to dry completely before storing. Avoid hanging pearl necklaces to prevent stretching the silk thread.

Avoid abrasive tools

Never use toothbrushes, rough cloths, or scrubbers on pearls. Their surfaces scratch easily, and once damaged, the nacre cannot be repaired.

Storing and Wearing Pearls Properly

Cleaning is only part of pearl care. How you store and wear your pearls also affects their longevity.

• Store separately: Pearls scratch easily, so keep them in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box away from harder gemstones.
• Wear them often: Pearls benefit from the natural oils in your skin, which help maintain their luster.
• Apply products first: Always put on lotion, hairspray, or perfume before wearing pearls. Chemicals can dull their surface.
• Restring when needed: Over time, the silk threads of pearl necklaces can stretch or weaken. Professional restringing every one to two years keeps them secure.

Professional Pearl Jewelry Care

While at-home care works well for routine maintenance, sometimes pearls need professional attention, whether it’s for restringing, deep cleaning, or restoring a treasured heirloom.

At Becker’s Diamonds, our expert jewelers provide specialized jewelry repair services, including pearl restringing and safe cleaning methods that protect these delicate gems. If your pearls are looking dull, loose, or need repair, our team can help bring them back to life.

Explore Becker’s Pearl Jewelry Collection

Pearls are always in style, whether worn as a modern accessory or a timeless classic. At Becker’s Diamonds, you’ll find a wide selection of pearl pieces to treasure, including:

• Pearl necklaces & pendants for a classic, elegant look
• Pearl rings that combine sophistication with everyday wear
• Pearl earrings are perfect for both formal and casual occasions
• Pearl bracelets to add subtle charm to your jewelry collection

Explore our online collection to find your perfect pearl accessory or visit us in West Hartford, Glastonbury or Old Saybrook, CT for personal shopping.

Caring for Your Pearls Beyond Cleaning

Keeping pearls beautiful isn’t just about knowing how to clean them. Because they’re organic and softer than most gemstones, a few extra precautions go a long way.

For starters, pearls should never be cleaned with harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam. These methods may work well for diamonds or gold, but they can permanently damage the nacre that gives pearls their luster. Even water, when pearls are left to soak, can weaken the string of a necklace over time. That’s why it’s best to wipe them gently with a damp, soft cloth after each wear rather than submerging them.

Regular upkeep also helps maintain their glow. A simple routine of wearing your pearls often, wiping them down, and storing them separately in a soft pouch or lined box is usually all they need. Just keep in mind that contact with makeup, hairspray, or perfume should be avoided.

Ultimately, pearls benefit from professional attention from time to time. If your necklace or bracelet is worn frequently, it’s wise to have it restrung every few years by a jeweler to prevent breakage.

With the proper care and gentle cleaning, your pearls can remain radiant heirlooms for generations.

Pearl jewelry care made simple

Pearls carry a timeless elegance that few other gems can match. With the proper care, they don’t just retain their beauty; they often become more meaningful as they’re worn and passed down through generations. Treating them gently and being mindful of how they’re cleaned ensures they remain radiant companions for life’s most memorable moments.

For added peace of mind, rely on trusted jewelers like Becker’s for professional care and repair. With a bit of attention, your pearls will remain one of the most cherished pieces in your collection.