The Most Effective and Easy Methods for Pearl Jewelry Maintenance
Why Pearl Care Matters
Pearls are organic gemstones—formed by living mollusks over years—which makes them more delicate than diamonds or sapphires. With proper care, your Akoya pearl necklace or freshwater pearl earrings can maintain their radiant luster for generations, becoming true heirlooms.
At Made by Petit Jewelry, every handcrafted pearl piece is created with meticulous attention to detail. Here's how to protect your investment and keep your pearls luminous.
The Golden Rule: Last On, First Off
Pearls are sensitive to chemicals found in perfume, hairspray, makeup, and lotions. Always put your pearl jewelry on after you've applied cosmetics and styled your hair, and remove it first when you get home.
What to Avoid:
- Perfume and cologne (the alcohol can damage nacre)
- Hairspray and styling products
- Chlorine from pools and hot tubs
- Household cleaners and harsh chemicals
- Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners (too harsh for pearls)
Daily Cleaning: The Soft Cloth Method
After each wear, gently wipe your pearls with a soft, damp cloth to remove oils, perspiration, and residue. This simple 10-second ritual prevents buildup that can dull their surface over time.
Pro tip: Use a microfiber cloth or dedicated jewelry polishing cloth—never paper towels, which can be abrasive.
Deep Cleaning: When Your Pearls Need More
Every few months, give your pearls a gentle bath:
- Mix lukewarm water with a drop of mild, fragrance-free soap
- Dip a soft cloth into the solution and gently wipe each pearl
- Rinse with a clean, damp cloth (never submerge strung pearls)
- Lay flat on a soft towel to air dry completely
Important: Never soak pearl necklaces or bracelets, as water can weaken the silk thread.
Storage: Protecting Your Pearls at Rest
Pearls need to breathe—avoid airtight containers or plastic bags. Store them separately from harder gemstones (like diamonds) that can scratch their surface.
Best Storage Practices:
- Keep in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box
- Store pearl necklaces flat to prevent thread stretching
- Separate from metal jewelry to avoid scratches
- Maintain moderate humidity (pearls can dry out in very dry climates)
Wearing Your Pearls: The Secret to Longevity
Here's a beautiful paradox: pearls actually benefit from being worn. The natural oils from your skin help maintain their luster. So don't save your pearl jewelry for special occasions—incorporate it into your everyday style.
Our minimalist pearl designs are crafted for versatility, transitioning seamlessly from office meetings to evening events.
When to Restring Pearl Necklaces
If you wear your pearl necklace regularly, have it professionally restrung every 1-2 years. Signs it's time:
- Visible stretching or gaps between pearls
- Frayed or discolored thread
- The necklace feels loose or droopy
Professional restringing includes knotting between each pearl, which prevents loss if the strand breaks and protects pearls from rubbing together.
Special Care for Different Pearl Types
Akoya Pearls
Known for their exceptional luster and perfectly round shape, Akoya pearls are saltwater gems that require the gentle care outlined above. Their thin nacre coating makes them particularly sensitive to acids and chemicals.
Freshwater Pearls
Slightly more durable due to thicker nacre, freshwater pearls still need the same tender care. Their organic baroque shapes make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
Gold-Set Pearl Jewelry
Our 14K and 18K gold settings are durable and tarnish-resistant, but still benefit from occasional cleaning with a jewelry polishing cloth to maintain their radiant finish.
Travel Tips for Pearl Jewelry
Traveling with your favorite pearl pieces? Follow these guidelines:
- Pack in a padded jewelry case or wrap in soft fabric
- Keep separate from other jewelry
- Remove before swimming, spa treatments, or beach activities
- Store in your hotel safe when not wearing
What to Do If Your Pearls Get Damaged
Accidents happen. If your pearl jewelry is damaged:
- Don't attempt DIY repairs on strung pieces
- Contact us for professional assessment and repair options
- Keep all pieces (even broken ones) for potential restoration
As a made-to-order atelier, we understand the sentimental value of each piece and offer repair consultations for our handcrafted jewelry.
The Made by Petit Difference
Every pearl piece from our NYC studio is crafted with ethically sourced materials and designed to last. When you care for your pearls properly, you're preserving not just jewelry, but wearable art with meaning.
Whether you own our Akoya pearl drop earrings, a freshwater pearl necklace, or a custom engagement piece, these care practices ensure your jewelry remains as radiant as the day it was created.
Your Pearl Care Questions Answered
Can I wear pearls in the shower?
No—soap, shampoo, and hot water can damage pearls and weaken stringing thread.
How often should I wear my pearls?
Regularly! Pearls benefit from contact with natural skin oils. Aim to wear them at least once a month.
Can pearls be restored if they've lost their luster?
Sometimes. Professional jewelers can attempt re-polishing, but prevention through proper care is always best.
Are lab-grown pearls easier to care for?
All pearls—natural, cultured, and lab-grown—require the same gentle care practices.
Ready to add timeless pearl jewelry to your collection? Explore our Akoya Pearl Collection or book a virtual consultation to design a custom piece that reflects your personal style.