pearl chain, bracelet and earrings

A staple in jewelry boxes across the world, the pearl is a classic gemstone that stays in style through the ages.  However, while their look may be timeless, a pearls luster is not.  Pearls require special care in order to maintain their soft glow.  By practicing the correct day to day care, cleaning regimens, and storage techniques, you will be able to keep them in quality condition for years to come.

Day to day care: 

Make pearls the last thing you put on when getting ready in the morning and the first thing you take off when you get home at night. As a natural gemstone, they are susceptible and easily damaged by hair sprays, perfumes, lotions, and any other kind of beauty product used in your beauty regimen. Once you remove your pearls for the day, it is good idea to gently wipe them with a soft polishing cloth.

Keep in mind, if your pearls come in contact with any type of acid during the day (sweat, perfume, vinegar, juice, etc.) you should immediately wipe them down. Be proactive about keeping your them clean, and they will last much longer!

Cleaning:

The only thing you need to clean your pearls is a soft polishing cloth. You can wipe them down after each use to ensure you remove all acids, which will help maintain your pearls' luster for much longer.

If a polishing cloth is no longer working, applying a small amount of baby shampoo and rubbing very gently with a soft cloth or brush will do the trick. Avoid using cleaning solutions with harsh chemicals, as these will immediately strip the pearl of its shine and luster, and make sure to use distilled water. Also be sure that the brush or cloth that you use is soft to avoid scratching the surface of your pearls. Once cleaned, dab them dry with your polishing cloth. Make sure not to leave any water or soap residue on your pearls. Remember, never use jewelry cleaning solutions or ultrasonic cleaners, as these are too harsh.

Storing:

Store pearls separately from other jewelry to avoid scratching. Since they have such a delicate surface, any contact with other jewelry could leave marks and scratches. The best place to keep your pearls is in a separate pearl pouch made of velvet or satin to best avoid scratching. Also, make sure you do not keep them in excessively dry conditions, as this will dehydrate your pearls and cause them to fracture. Lastly, ensure you store them out of reach of direct sunlight, as this will cause your pearls to turn yellow.

pearls stored in a bag

Pearls are a precious gift and timeless keepsake that should be passed down from generation to generation. In order to make this possible be sure to follow the steps above!

If you have any other questions about jewelry care, Don Roberto Jewelers are here to help you. Visit us today at one of our famous jewelry and earring stores.