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How to clean and care for pearls

By The Perfect Pearls editors · Updated · How we check our facts

Pearls are soft and sensitive to chemicals, so they need gentler care than most jewelry. Here is GIA's advice in plain steps.

After every wear

Wipe your pearls with a very soft, clean cloth (GIA). This removes skin oils, perspiration and cosmetics before they can harm the surface.

Deep cleaning, now and then

  1. Use warm water with a little mild soap.
  2. Wipe each pearl gently with a soft cloth. Do not soak a strung necklace.
  3. Rinse with a clean damp cloth.
  4. Lay the strand flat to dry. Let the string dry completely before wearing (GIA), because a wet silk string stretches and holds dirt.

Never

  • Ultrasonic or steam cleaners. GIA says pearls should never be cleaned in them.
  • Jewelry dips, alcohol or acetone. Pearls can be damaged by many chemicals and all acids, and dye comes off with alcohol or acetone (GIA).
  • High heat, which can burn, discolor, split or crack pearls (GIA).

Wear them last, take them off first

Put on perfume, hair spray and cosmetics before your pearls (GIA). These, and perspiration, can damage the surface.

Storage

  • Keep pearls apart from other gems and metal jewelry, because at 2.5 to 3.0 on the Mohs scale they scratch easily (GIA).
  • Do not store them in plastic bags; plastic can damage the surface (GIA).
  • Keep them in a soft, dry place. Very dry or intense heat and light can dehydrate pearls and crack the nacre (GIA).

Can pearls get wet?

A quick wipe with a damp cloth is fine, and occasional washing in warm, soapy water is safe (GIA). Take them off before showering or swimming: GIA notes pearls can be damaged by many chemicals and all acids, and soaking a strung necklace stretches the string.

Restringing

If the string looks stretched, frayed or dirty, or the gaps between pearls have grown, take the strand to a jeweler to have it restrung.

Print the pearl care card for your jewelry box.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

How do you clean pearls?

Wipe them with a very soft cloth after each wear. For an occasional deep clean, use warm soapy water and a soft cloth, then let the string dry completely before wearing (GIA).

Can you clean pearls with an ultrasonic cleaner?

No. GIA says pearls should never be cleaned in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner.

Can I wear pearls in the shower?

It is best not to. GIA notes pearls can be damaged by many chemicals, and soaking a strung necklace stretches the string.

How should I store pearls?

Separately from other jewelry, in a soft pouch or lined box, not in a plastic bag (GIA).

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