How to Care for Your Pearls: Keep Their Shine for a Lifetime
Pearls are among the few gemstones born from life itself. They are delicate, organic, and full of emotion. With just a bit of attention and care, their natural luster can last for generations — a quiet glow that never fades.
1. Why Pearls “Love Moisture but Dislike Dryness”
Unlike diamonds or sapphires, pearls are organic gems made of calcium carbonate and protein. They contain a trace amount of water within their nacre. This means they thrive in moderate humidity but can lose shine or crack in overly dry environments. Wearing your pearls often actually helps — your skin’s natural moisture keeps them radiant.
2. Everyday Wearing Tips
- Put on your pearls after perfume, lotion, or makeup — not before.
- Avoid direct contact with hairspray, sunscreen, and acidic substances.
- Do not wear pearls while bathing, swimming, or exercising — sweat and chlorine can dull their glow.
- After wearing, gently wipe them with a soft, clean cloth to remove surface oil and dust.
3. Gentle Cleaning at Home vs. Professional Care
For simple home care, use lukewarm water mixed with a few drops of mild soap. Dampen a soft cloth (never soak the entire strand), wipe carefully, and let it air dry flat. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners — they can damage the nacre layers.
For heavily used or vintage pieces, professional cleaning every 1–2 years is recommended. Jewelers use specialized non-abrasive solutions and restring the necklace to maintain strength and symmetry.
4. How to Store and Maintain the Threading
Store pearls in a soft pouch or a separate jewelry compartment, away from harder gems that may scratch them. Keep them in a slightly humid place, not under direct sunlight or near heat sources. If worn often, have the necklace restrung every 12–18 months — ideally with knots between each pearl to prevent rubbing and accidental loss.
Professional jewelers use silk thread for its strength and flexibility — it protects pearls while allowing them to move gracefully.
5. Why Pearls Turn Yellow or Lose Luster — and How to Restore Them
Pearls may yellow over time if exposed to dryness, heat, or lack of air circulation. Lightly wearing them again can help restore their sheen as the nacre rehydrates naturally. For long-term discoloration, professional cleaning and polishing can revive their glow, though prevention is always better than cure.
Think of pearls like delicate skin — they love gentle touch, moisture, and care. With the right habits, they’ll reward you with a glow that only deepens with time.