How to Clean Pearls: Essential Care for Pearl Jewelry
Here’s what you need to know about pearl care, including tips on how to clean pearls:
This article will provide essential cleaning tips and maintenance tips to help you keep your pearls beautiful and well-preserved.
Pearls are the classic June birthstone, and they’re truly one-of-a-kind. Unlike other gemstones that are mined from deep in the earth, pearls are actually created by living oysters—making them organic treasures that form layer by layer over time. This natural process is part of what makes them so special, but it also means they’re softer and more delicate than the other gemstones in your jewelry box. Pearls are much softer than gems like diamonds, so they require gentler care and should not be stored with harder gems to avoid scratches.
The good news? With the right care and cleaning routine, your pearl jewelry can last for generations while keeping that gorgeous luster and beauty intact. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your pearls looking luminous for years to come.
Wondering how to clean pearls and if you need special products to care for your pearls? Here’’s the best part—you don’’t. These organic gems don’’t require any fancy cleaners or expensive solutions. Everything you need is probably already sitting in your home. Cultured pearls, which are the most common type of pearl jewelry, require the same gentle care as natural pearls to preserve their beauty and longevity.
A soft cloth, some gentle soap (such as mild dish soap), and room-temperature water are really all it takes. Add a second soft cloth for drying, and you’’re all set. Whether you’’re cleaning pearl necklaces, earrings, or rings, this simple approach will keep them safe and damage-free.
FUN FACT: Pearls may look solid, but they’re actually made of thousands of microscopic crystal layers. This is why even gentle acids—like vinegar—can dissolve their surface!
The secret to cleaning pearl earrings? A gentle touch and the right approach. Harsh cleaning methods can damage that beautiful surface pearls are known for, so for day-to-day maintenance, a simple wipe-down is all your pearl jewelry needs to stay looking gorgeous. Regular cleaning also helps prevent discoloration and a dull appearance, keeping your pearls radiant.
When it’s time for a deeper clean, you can easily make your own cleaning solution at home. Just mix a bit of gentle soap with lukewarm water—and this is important—skip the hot water, as it can actually harm your pearls. Dip a soft cloth into the lukewarm water solution, wring it out well (you want it damp, not soaking), and gently wipe each pearl. As you clean, check for any signs of yellowing or discoloration, which can indicate aging or improper storage.
Here’s what to keep on hand for pearl care:
Here’s the thing about pearls—their organic nature makes them surprisingly vulnerable to chemicals. And when you consider that even expensive pearl types rank just 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, you realize these gems are actually quite soft. That means abrasive products can easily scratch or damage them.
You might come across articles suggesting nail polish remover or other harsh chemicals to restore color—don’t believe them. These strong substances can degrade your pearl’s delicate surface, accelerate aging, and even break down the adhesive holding your rings and earrings together. Over time, exposure to harsh chemicals can cause pearls to yellow and degrade, diminishing their natural beauty.
To keep your pearls safe and beautiful, steer clear of:
Now that you know what to use (and what to avoid), let’s walk through the actual cleaning process. The good news is that the best way to clean pearls is refreshingly straightforward. These steps will help you clean your pearl jewelry properly without dulling their shine or damaging their delicate surface, so they maintain their original color and beauty.
Whether you’re caring for a necklace, ring, or earrings, the golden rule stays the same: be gentle. We’ll show you exactly how to clean pearls at home, plus share some common mistakes to watch out for. For stubborn stains or if you’re unsure about the best cleaning tips for your jewelry, consult a professional jeweler for cleaning advice.
Most of the time, caring for your pearls at home is wonderfully simple. For everyday maintenance, just wipe them with a soft, dry cloth—that’s honestly all they need. When your pearls get particularly dirty and need a deeper clean, don’t worry. A little soap, water, a soft cloth, and a damp cotton ball are your best friends here.
Pearl necklaces need special attention because of the silk thread or necklace string they’re strung on. Never submerge the entire necklace in water—the silk thread can weaken, stretch, or become damaged. Instead, wipe each individual pearl on the necklace one by one. For rings and earrings, here’s a pro tip: use a cotton swab with just a touch of rubbing alcohol to clean the metal setting, but be very careful to keep the alcohol away from the pearl itself.
Here’s a step-by-step approach for a thorough cleaning:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Mix Solution | Create a solution of lukewarm water and a few drops of mild, gentle soap. |
| 2. Dampen Cloth | Dip a soft cloth or cotton ball into the soapy water and wring it out completely. |
| 3. Wipe Pearls | Gently wipe each pearl with the damp cloth to remove dirt and oils. |
| 4. Dry Thoroughly | Use a separate soft dry cloth to gently pat the pearls dry. |
| 5. Air Dry | Lay the jewelry flat on a soft towel and let it air dry completely before storing. |
Here’s the thing—knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right cleaning methods. One simple mistake can permanently damage your trending pearls, and there’s no going back. Many people assume all jewelry can be treated the same way, but pearls are in a category of their own and need special care.
When your pearls look like they need a deep clean, you might be tempted to soak them. Don’t. Soaking can weaken the silk thread on your necklace or dissolve the adhesive on your earrings. And if you store them away before they’re completely dry? That moisture can damage both the string and the settings over time. One more thing—never stash your pearls in a hot, stuffy attic. The heat will literally dry them out and damage them.
To protect your pearls, avoid these common mistakes:
When you picture the perfect strand of pearls, chances are you’re thinking of Akoya pearls. Loved for their mirror-like luster and classic round shape, these saltwater gems have defined timeless elegance for over a century.
Each Akoya pearl necklace from The Pearl Source is hand-strung on fine silk, individually knotted for strength and security, and finished with your choice of gold clasp. Whether worn as a single strand for everyday sophistication or layered for evening allure, Akoya pearls capture that unmistakable glow that never goes out of style.
Taking proper care of your pearls goes beyond just cleaning—it’’s also about how you wear and handle them in your everyday life. These simple preventative measures can make all the difference in how long your pearls last and help preserve their quality over time. Here’’s something most people don’’t realize: frequent wear actually encourages thicker nacre (that beautiful outer layer), so wearing your pearls regularly is genuinely good for them.
Whether you save your pearls for special occasions or make them part of your daily wardrobe, a few easy habits will keep them protected from everyday threats like cosmetics and sweat. Perspiration can affect pearls, so it’s important to gently wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing to remove any sweat and maintain their luster. Let’’s talk about how daily wear affects your pearls and what you can do to keep them safe.
Should you wear your favorite pearl pieces every day? For necklaces and earrings, the answer is usually yes. Pearls actually thrive with frequent wear—the natural oils from your skin help prevent them from drying out and keep them looking lustrous and vibrant. However, it’s best to remove your pearls at night before sleeping. Wearing pearls at night can expose them to unnecessary friction and pressure, which may affect their quality over time.
Pearls are incredibly versatile for everyday wear. They work beautifully with casual outfits and elevate more formal looks just as well. Pearl rings, however, are a different story. Since your hands are constantly bumping into things throughout the day, a pearl ring faces much more risk of getting scratched or damaged.
If you want your pearl rings to stay pristine, it’s smart to reserve them for special events. And if you do wear pearl jewelry regularly, make it a habit to wipe it down with a soft cloth at the end of each day to remove any dirt or oil buildup.
FUN FACT: Pearls love to be worn! The natural oils from your skin help keep them hydrated and luminous—so the more often you wear them, the better they’ll look.
Here’s something that might surprise you: everyday products can do more damage to your pearls than you’d expect. Because pearls are made of organic materials, they’re vulnerable to chemicals found in tons of common items. Pearls are also susceptible to damage from water, sweat, and cosmetics, so extra care is needed. Even something as natural as sweat is acidic enough to gradually break down the pearl’s nucleus, causing that gorgeous surface to lose its luster over time.
The best defense? Following a few key preventative measures. Try the “last on, first off” rule—it’s a game-changer. Put your pearls on after you’ve finished applying makeup, hairspray, and perfume, then take them off first thing when you get home, before removing anything else. And whatever you do, don’t wear your pearls in the shower, pool, or while doing dishes. Water exposure can seriously damage both the string and the settings.
To keep your pearls protected, steer clear of:
Once your pearls are clean and dry, proper storage becomes crucial for their long-term health. How and where you store pearls makes all the difference in preventing scratches, keeping them from drying out, stopping necklace strands from stretching, and keeping jewelry clasps in their proper condition. The right storage container is key to making your pearls last.
Pearls need to breathe, so always store them in breathable materials like silk or cotton rather than airtight containers. Improper storage can accelerate the aging process and lead to yellowing, as pearls may become dehydrated and lose their luster over time.
Looking for jewelry storage ideas? The best storage containers for pearls aren’t airtight—they should be lined with soft fabric and allow some airflow. If you need travel jewelry cases, keep reading. We’ll share specific tips and jewelry storage inspiration to help you store your pearls properly.
Finding the perfect way to store pearls isn’t complicated. The two main goals are protecting them from harder gemstones and preventing those delicate organic layers from drying out. A dedicated jewelry box with a fabric lining or a soft pouch works beautifully as a storage container, keeping your pearls safe from scratches caused by diamonds or other hard stones.
Never hang your pearl necklaces—the silk thread will stretch over time. Instead, lay them flat. And skip the plastic bags, since some plastics release chemicals that can harm the pearl’s surface. The best storage containers allow a bit of air circulation because pearls actually need moisture from the air to stay healthy.
Here are some quick tips for storing pearls when you travel:
Once your pearls are clean and gleaming, the fun part begins—styling them. Our Shop the Look collection makes it easy to pair your favorite pearl pieces into effortless, coordinated sets. From classic necklaces and pearl earrings to modern layers and mixed metals, each curated look is designed to inspire new ways to wear your pearls every day.
Explore timeless combinations that take you from casual to formal with ease—and discover just how versatile pearl jewelry can be.
If you wear your pearls often, it is good to wipe them with a soft cloth every time you use them. A deeper cleaning at home is helpful when you see they do not shine as much, and remember their shine comes from the result of a thin layer of nacre. To keep their original luster, you should take your pearls for a professional cleaning and check-up once a year as a preventative measure.
No, you should not use regular jewelry cleaner on pearls. The reason is these products are too strong for the soft organic materials in the beads. If you use them, they can make a damaged pearl. The strong cleaners can strip away the surface, so the pearls lose their original color. To clean pearls safely, always use gentle soap and water. You can put this on with a soft cloth. This way, you will not harm the pearls.
Pearls have low Mohs hardness, so you should not use strong cleaners or hard brushes on them. Stay away from chemicals like nail polish remover, as these can harm the outside of the pearl and even melt the natural adhesive or binding glue holding the pearl. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or keep pearls in a hot, stuffy attic. This can make a damaged pearl more likely, and the pearl might crack.
Caring for your pearl jewelry is about more than just cleaning—it’s about preserving these treasures for years to come and keeping them looking absolutely stunning. Because pearls are made of delicate layers of lustrous nacre, they need thoughtful care. When you use the right supplies, follow proper cleaning techniques, and store them correctly, your pearl jewelry will maintain its gorgeous shine and beauty for generations.
Remember, pearls are soft gemstones that respond best to a gentle touch and careful handling. With consistent care and smart storage habits, you can prevent damage and keep your pearls looking as luminous as the day you got them.
Have questions or want personalized advice on caring for your pearls? Feel free to reach out for a free consultation. Your pearls deserve the best care, and we’re here to help!
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Content Writer and Editor at The Pearl Source
Kate Muirhead is the editor and content writer for leading pearl retailer The Pearl Source. She believes in the power of signature jewelry, and that collecting it is half the fun.
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