We all know that diamonds are some of the hardest materials on earth, but pearls are far more delicate. There’s beauty in this fragility, of course, but it does mean that you have to be even more gentle when it comes time to clean your pearl jewellery.
If you’ve ever held a real pearl necklace or earring before, you’ve probably felt the pearl’s softness. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, pearls typically rank between 2.5 and 4.5, making them very susceptible to scratches and abrasions. This softness is due to the layers of nacre that make up the pearl’s structure.
The nacre is part of what makes pearls so beautiful, but also what makes them so fragile. In addition to being soft, nacre is also very susceptible to changes in the pearl’s surroundings, including pH changes. This is part of why you need to be so selective about what you use to clean your pearls. Acidic chemicals, such as those found in common household cleaners (or even in perspiration, which is why we’re cleaning the pearls!), can gradually eat away at the nacre, leading to a loss of luster and damage the surface.
So here we’ve put together a quick guide on important do’s and don’ts for pearl jewellery care. If you have any concerns or uncertainty, however, please do contact your local jeweller to help you clean your most precious pieces.
The Do’s
Gentle Cleaning
Pearls are delicate, so handle them with care at all times. For everyday cleaning, you can use a soft, damp cloth or a microfiber cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or oils that may have collected on the pearl’s surface. This simple step can restore their natural glow.
After cleaning, it’s essential to ensure your pearls are completely dry to prevent any moisture damage. Pat them dry gently with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid any rubbing or wringing motions, as these can lead to scratches.
Mild Soaps
Occasionally, your pearls might require a deeper clean. In these cases, you can use a mild, pH-balanced, non-detergent soap. This type of soap is gentle and won’t harm the delicate nacre, which gives pearls their lustrous shine.
Dampen a soft cloth with the soapy water and carefully wipe your pearls. This can effectively remove any accumulated grime or oils. Then after cleaning, make sure to rinse the pearls thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth. This ensures there’s no soap residue left behind, which could dull their shine.
String Inspection
For pearl necklaces or bracelets, take a moment to inspect the stringing any time you clean them. Over time, the string holding your pearls together can weaken, so be on the lookout for signs of wear or any fraying or stretching. If you spot any issues, it’s a good idea to consult a professional jeweller for restringing. This proactive step helps ensure your pearls stay securely fastened and free from damage.
The Don’ts
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
One of the most important “Don’ts” when it comes to cleaning and caring for pearls is to steer clear of harsh chemicals. It’s especially crucial to avoid jewellery cleaners that contain ammonia, bleach, vinegar, or any acidic or abrasive substances. These chemicals can be highly detrimental to the nacre, making your pearl quickly lose its shine and become dull even more fragile.
Keep Away from Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners
Another important rule of thumb is to never subject your pearls to ultrasonic or steam cleaning methods. While effective for some jewellery, these methods can be disastrous for pearls. They can generate strong vibrations or heat that may weaken the adhesive used to attach pearls to their settings. If the adhesive deteriorates, it can result in pearls becoming loose or even falling out of their settings, meaning that you could lose your precious gems altogether.
Minimize Contact with Perfumes and Lotions
When it comes to wearing your pearl jewellery, a simple precaution is to minimize contact with perfumes, lotions, and hairspray. Of course you can wear these things at the same time as your pearls, but be sure to allow them to dry thoroughly. This is important because these products can contain chemicals that, over time, may interact with the pearls and cause damage to those beautiful layers of nacre we’ve been talking about. By ensuring these substances are fully absorbed into your skin or hair, you can prevent those damaging chemical interactions and help your pearls maintain their radiant beauty.
When in Doubt, Go to the Pros
The above advice should set you on the right path for basic cleaning and care for your pearl jewellery, but there’s still one invaluable piece of advice we’d like to leave you with. When in doubt, seek the expertise of a professional jeweller.
Your most precious pearl pieces, whether they hold sentimental value or represent significant investments, deserve nothing but the best care. Professional jewellers possess the knowledge and experience needed to handle your pearls with the utmost delicacy, ensuring they maintain their stunning allure.
So, when you find yourself uncertain at all, leave your beloved pearls with your local jeweller who can provide expert guidance and care. With their help, your pearls will continue to shine brightly, becoming timeless heirlooms to be loved for generations to come.