Pearls are timeless, but they require a little extra love to keep that signature luster. It is natural to worry about damaging them during the cleaning process, especially since they are organic gems.
If you do it wrong, you risk scratching the surface or dulling the shine. But do not panic. We have researched the safest, most effective methods for maintaining your jewelry at home.
Whether you need to clean real pearls, freshwater strands, or even spruce up a fake set, we have the answers below.
Key Takeaways
- Clean pearls after every wear using a soft, damp jewelry cloth to remove body oils.
- Prevent yellowing by storing pearls in a breathable bag and wearing them frequently to maintain hydration.
- Avoid harsh cleaners like vinegar, ammonia, chlorine, and ultrasonic machines, as they damage the nacre.
- Apply makeup, perfume, and hairspray before putting on your pearls to prevent chemical damage.
How Often to Clean Freshwater Pearls
If you own freshwater pearls, you are in luck. These gems are unique statement pieces, but they are softer than other gemstones. This means they require consistent maintenance.
You should clean freshwater pearls after every wear. It does not need to be a long process. Simply wipe them down with a soft, dry jewelry cloth. If they have visible dirt or sweat on them, use a damp cloth. Always lay them flat to air dry completely before you store them.
This rule applies to cultured pearls as well. Regular maintenance prevents the buildup of acidic oils that can eat away at the nacre over time.
Pro Tip
Adhere to the “wipe-down” rule for all real pearls. A quick wipe after use keeps them polished and scratch-free for years to come.
Do Real Pearls Turn Yellow?
If your pearls turn yellow, it is a strong indication that they are real. This is a natural part of the aging process (1).
Pearls are organic. Their composition changes if they lack air circulation or moisture, which leads to yellowing. You can prevent this by storing them in ventilated areas and avoiding hot, dry locations. Interestingly, wearing your pearls frequently helps prevent this, as the moisture from the air and your skin keeps them hydrated.
Here are a few ways to distinguish a real pearl from a fake one:
- The tooth test: Rub the pearl softly against the edge of your tooth. A real pearl feels gritty, like sandpaper. A fake pearl feels perfectly smooth.
- The temperature test: Real pearls feel cold to the touch initially and warm up against your skin. Fake pearls usually start at room temperature and can feel sticky or tacky.
- Use a magnifier: Look at the surface under a magnifying glass. Real pearls have small irregularities and ridges. Fake pearls look too perfect and glassy.
- The friction test: Rub two pearls gently together. Genuine pearls create a bit of friction and fine powder. Fake pearls glide smoothly against each other.
- Check the shape: Natural pearls are rarely perfect spheres. Fake pearls are usually identical in size and shape throughout the strand.
How to Clean Pearls
It is vital to clean real and cultured pearls regularly to protect their luster. Follow this step-by-step process to ensure you do not damage the silk thread or the gem itself.
- Time: 10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
What You Will Need
- Soft jewelry cloth (cotton or bamboo)
- Cotton muslin cloth
- Pure, mild soap (no additives)
- Small basin
- Warm water
- Soft toothbrush (for clasps only)
This is the standard method for general cleaning. If your pearls are relatively clean, you can skip the soap and just use water.
1. Wipe the Pearls With Water
Dampen a soft jewelry cloth with lukewarm water. Do not submerge the strand in water, as this weakens the silk thread. Gently wipe each pearl individually to remove surface debris.
2. Let the Pearls Air Dry
Lay the necklace flat on a clean towel. Let it air dry completely. If you just wore them for a few hours, this step is often enough. For a deeper clean, continue to step 3.
3. Clean With Soapy Water
Mix a small amount of pure, mild soap with warm water in a basin. Dip a soft muslin cloth into the water and wring it out until it is damp, not soaking. Gently rub each pearl. This removes accumulated oils and perfumes.
4. Dry the Pearls
Use a fresh, dry section of your muslin cloth to wipe away any moisture.
5. Clean the Clasp
Metal clasps often collect grime. Dip a soft toothbrush into the soapy water and gently scrub the metal clasp. Be very careful not to brush the pearls nearby, as bristles can scratch the nacre.
6. Final Drying
Wipe the clasp dry. Lay the necklace flat in a safe area out of direct sunlight. Ensure the silk thread is completely dry before storing to prevent stretching or rotting.
How to Clean Yellowed Pearls
If your pearls have yellowed significantly, it indicates the organic proteins have dried out. Reversing this is difficult and sometimes impossible. However, gentle hydration can help improve their appearance.
- Time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
What You Will Need
- Soft cotton cloths
- Warm water
- Mild soap
1. Clean the Surface
Use the standard cleaning method above with mild soapy water to remove surface dirt.
2. Gentle Hydration
Dampen a clean cloth with fresh water. Wring it out well. Lay your pearls on the cloth and gently fold the cloth over them. Leave them for 10 to 15 minutes. This creates a humid environment that can help rehydrate the nacre.
3. Dry and Store Correctly
Remove the pearls and let them air dry flat. Do not store them in airtight plastic bags or safes, as this accelerates yellowing. They need to breathe.
4. Seek Professional Help
Some older guides suggest using acetone. We strongly advise against this for home cleaning, as it can strip the pearl’s luster permanently if done incorrectly. If your pearls remain yellow, take them to a professional jeweler for an assessment.
Tips to Make Pearls Shine Again
If your jewelry looks dull, it likely has a buildup of body oils or products. Try these tips to restore the shine:
- Wear them often: The natural moisture from your skin actually helps keep pearls shiny and prevents them from drying out.
- Polish after wear: A quick buff with a chamois or bamboo cloth removes residues like hairspray or sweat that dull the surface.
- Proper storage: Keep them in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid dry, hot rooms.
- Professional care: Take your pearls to a jeweler once a year. They can professionally clean them and check if the silk strand needs restringing.
Avoid This
How to Clean Fake Pearls
Faux pearls might not come from an oyster, but they still deserve to sparkle. Glass or plastic pearls are generally more durable than real ones, but you should still handle them with care to avoid peeling the coating.
- Time: 5-10 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
What You Will Need
- Mild dish soap
- Small bowl
- Water
- Soft towel
1. Wash With Soapy Water
Mix one tablespoon of dish soap into a bowl of lukewarm water. Submerge the fake pearls for a minute or two. Use your fingers to gently rub away dirt. Unlike real pearls, soaking fake pearls briefly is usually safe, provided they are not glued onto a backing.
2. Rinse and Dry
Maintaining Pearls Correctly
Prevention is easier than correction when it comes to delicate jewelry. Follow these golden rules to keep your gems pristine.
Here are the crucial tips for pearl maintenance:
- Last on, first off: Put your pearls on only after you have applied makeup, perfume, and hairspray. Take them off first when you get home. Chemicals in cosmetics eat away at the pearl’s nacre.
- Dry thoroughly: Ensure the silk cord is 100% dry before storing. Wet silk stretches and rots, which could lead to a broken necklace.
- Let them breathe: Do not store pearls in plastic bags, safety deposit boxes, or airtight containers. Lack of moisture causes them to crack and yellow. Use a silk or cotton pouch.
- Separate storage: Pearls are soft (2.5 on the Mohs scale). Store them away from diamonds or metal jewelry that can scratch them.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Keep pearls away from vinegar, lemon juice, chlorine, and bleach. These acids dissolve the calcium carbonate in the pearl.
- Skip the gym: Sweat is acidic and can dull the luster over time. Remove jewelry before exercising or swimming. Chlorine in pools is particularly damaging.
- Restring regularly: If you wear your strand often, have it restrung every year or two. Check for knots between each pearl; these prevent the pearls from rubbing together and stop you from losing them all if the string breaks.
FAQs
Will Vinegar Damage Pearls?
Yes, vinegar will damage pearls. Pearls are made of calcium carbonate, which reacts with the acid in vinegar. While it might not dissolve the pearl instantly like in the legends of Cleopatra, it will dull the surface and ruin the luster quickly (2). Never use vinegar for cleaning.
Is It OK to Wear Pearls Every Day?
You can wear pearls every day, but you must be careful. Frequent wear helps hydrate the pearls, but exposure to daily chemicals like perfume, sweat, and soap can cause damage. If you wear them daily, wipe them down every single night.
Can Pearls Get Scratched?
Pearls are very soft and scratch easily. They rank low on the Mohs hardness scale. Contact with metal jewelry, rough fabrics, or abrasive cleaners like baking soda can leave permanent scratches on the surface.
How Much are Real Pearls Worth Today?
The value varies wildly based on type, size, luster, and surface quality. Freshwater pearls can cost between $50 and $2,000, while rare South Sea or Akoya pearls can range from $1,000 up to $100,000 or more.
Which Color Pearl is the Most Valuable?
Generally, the deep gold South Sea pearls and the black Tahitian pearls are among the most valuable. However, a perfectly round, flawless white pearl with mirror-like luster is also highly prized.
Is It OK to Shower With Pearls?
No, you should never shower with pearls. The water weakens the silk thread, and the chemicals in shampoos and body washes will strip the pearl’s natural luster.
Does Rubbing Alcohol Harm Pearls?
Yes, rubbing alcohol harms pearls. Alcohol dries out the surface and can eat away at the nacre. Avoid using hand sanitizers or alcohol-based wipes while wearing your pearl rings or bracelets.
Can I Clean Pearls With Toothpaste?
No, do not use toothpaste to clean pearls. Toothpaste contains abrasive particles intended to scrub enamel, which is much harder than a pearl. Using toothpaste will scratch and dull the surface of your jewelry.
Pristine Pearls
The bottom line is simple: wear your pearls often, but keep them away from chemicals. A quick wipe after every use goes a long way in preserving that classic shine.
Don’t hide your jewelry in a dark box for months. Pearls thrive on moisture and air. Remember the golden rule of “last on, first off,” and your gems will look stunning for generations.
