Pearls have long been used in the creation of the most mesmerising gemstone jewellery pieces. Uniquely beautiful and just as delicate, the pearl’s incredible lustre and charm are made to be admired, and its timeless style means it’s a gem that will be forever revered.

Like any gemstone, however, pearls need the right care to stay in tip-top condition. Here we share an essential guide to pearl care so you can maintain this simply stunning, organic stone like a pro and enjoy those treasured pearl jewellery pieces for years to come.

Understand how pearls are different

When it comes to jewellery care, you can’t treat pearls like any other gemstone. Even the practices used to look after lesser-known gemstones, don’t compare to the delicate steps required to take care of pearls.

Understanding how pearls are different is therefore the key to caring for these graceful and utterly unique gemstones. CrystalsAndJewelry.com explains more about their makeup:

“Unlike other gemstones that come from the earth, Pearl is formed in mollusks that can be found in both fresh and saltwater. Small foreign bodies, like grains of sand or small parasites, get inside the mollusk and form layers of pearly materials around it as a defense. Layers in the Pearl build up just like the layers of an onion, creating concentric circles. The more layers are formed, the larger the Pearl becomes.”

Prevent dry outs in one simple step

Their underwater roots mean pearls need to be exposed to plenty of moisture to stay in the best condition.

Without a good level of moisture exposure, pearls will quickly become dry and brittle. But before you dig out the humidifier, there’s one simple solution to ensure your pearl jewellery gets all the moisture it needs.

Wearing your pearls regularly is the key to keeping them moist and healthy. As well as your pearls absorbing moisture from the air, the moisture from your skin provides the humidity required to prevent dry outs.

Wear them regularly with care

Whilst wearing your pearls as much as possible will stop them from drying out, their absorbent nature can cause damage if you’re not careful. Contact with skin and hair care products is a common cause of staining, so be sure to wait at least half an hour after product application before donning your pearl jewellery.  

Make a habit of cleaning your pearls

With regular wear comes the need for more frequent cleaning, but you don’t have to go crazy with your jewellery care regime. A simple wipe down with a soft, damp cloth after every wear or as often as possible will keep your pearls clear of the natural oils, sweat and pollutants that can so easily cause damage and staining.

Resist the urge to scrub your pearls. Whilst a soft-bristled toothbrush is the perfect tool for gemstone jewellery care, it’s too harsh for pearl jewellery.

Avoid intense heat at all costs

Intense heat causes real problems for pearls. Due to their soft, delicate nature, exposure to direct heat will dehydrate pearls causing them to crack. Leave your pearl jewellery behind if it’s an unseasonably hot day and doesn’t place your pearls on top of hot surfaces.

You should also avoid wearing your pearl jewellery at the gym. While those strenuous workout sessions create the moisture pearls love, the salt content of your sweat can be corrosive to pearl jewellery.

Store your pearls separately

Reserve a separate compartment just for your pearl pieces. Pearls can be easily scratched by harder jewellery. Avoid using airtight jewellery boxes too as this will have a dehydrating effect.

Purchasing pearl jewellery that’s great quality is of course rule number one of pearl care. Explore our beautiful pearl pieces right here.