How To Clean Pearl Jewelry

Pearl jewelry exudes timeless elegance and sophistication, making it a treasured addition to any jewelry collection. However, pearls are delicate and require special care to maintain their luster and beauty. At N.T. Ferro Jewelers, we understand the importance of keeping your pearl jewelry looking its best. This guide will provide you with detailed instructions on how to clean and care for your precious pearls.

Common Pearl Jewelry Damage and Their Causes

Unlike other gemstones, pearls are organic and formed inside mollusks. Their unique composition makes them softer and more susceptible to damage from chemicals, heat, and abrasives. Understanding the common issues that could represent damage for your pearl jewelry can help you take better care of these precious gems.

Surface Scratches

  • Cause: Pearls are relatively soft compared to other gemstones, ranking about 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes them susceptible to scratches from harder materials.
  • Prevention: Avoid storing pearls with other jewelry items. Use a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box.

Loss of Luster

  • Cause: Exposure to chemicals, such as perfume, hairspray, and makeup, can erode the nacre (the outer layer of pearls), leading to a dull appearance.
  • Prevention: Always apply cosmetics and sprays before putting on your pearl jewelry. Clean your pearls with a soft, damp cloth after wearing them to remove any residues.

Cracks and Chips

  • Cause: Dropping or knocking pearls against hard surfaces can cause physical damage like cracks and chips. Pearls are also sensitive to extreme temperature changes, which can lead to cracking.
  • Prevention: Handle your pearl jewelry with care. Avoid wearing pearls during activities where they might get bumped or exposed to sudden temperature changes.

Discoloration

  • Cause: Prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat, or certain chemicals can cause pearls to discolor. Sweat can also contribute to yellowing over time.
  • Prevention: Store pearls in a cool, dark place. Clean them gently after wearing to remove any sweat or residues. Avoid exposing pearls to harsh chemicals.

String Wear

  • Cause: The silk or nylon thread used to string pearl necklaces and bracelets can stretch and weaken over time, especially if the jewelry is worn frequently. This can lead to the strand breaking.
  • Prevention: Regularly inspect the string for signs of wear and have your pearls restrung by a professional jeweler every few years.

Detachment from Setting

  • Cause: Pearls set in rings, earrings, or other jewelry can become loose and eventually detach due to wear and tear or impact.
  • Prevention: Periodically check the settings and mountings of your pearl jewelry. If you notice any looseness, have it inspected and repaired by a jeweler promptly.

Properly Cleaning Pearl Jewelry to Avoid Damage

Pearls are delicate gems that require special care to maintain their luster and beauty. Proper cleaning is essential to avoid damage and ensure your pearls remain in their best condition. Here’s an in-depth guide on how to clean and care for your pearl jewelry:

Daily Care Tips

Wipe After Each Wear:

  • Soft Cloth: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe your pearls after each wear. This helps remove oils, sweat, and any other residues that can accumulate on the surface.
  • Damp Cloth for Heavier Residue: If there is more substantial residue, dampen the cloth slightly with water. Avoid using hot water, as it can weaken the silk or nylon thread that pearls are often strung on.

Gentle Cleaning Solution

  1. Prepare the Solution: Mix a small amount of mild, non-detergent soap (like baby soap or a gentle dish soap) with lukewarm water.
  2. Soft Brush: Use a very soft brush, such as a makeup brush or a specialized jewelry brush, to gently clean the pearls. Dip the brush in the soapy solution and lightly brush the pearls.
  3. Rinse Thoroughly: After brushing, rinse the pearls with clean, lukewarm water. Be careful not to soak them for too long, as prolonged exposure to water can weaken the stringing material.
  4. Drying: Pat the pearls dry with a soft cloth and lay them flat to dry completely. Ensure the strand is completely dry before storing or wearing to prevent stretching or weakening of the string.

Professional Cleaning

  • Expert Assessment: Have your pearl jewelry professionally cleaned and inspected at least once a year at N.T. Ferro Jewelers. Our skilled jewelers can check for any signs of wear or damage and clean the pearls using specialized tools and techniques.
  • Restringing: Regular professional cleaning at N.T. Ferro Jewelers is also an excellent opportunity to have your pearls restrung if necessary. Depending on how often you wear your pearls, restringing every few years is advisable to maintain the integrity of the strand.

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

  • Perfume and Hairspray: Apply perfume, hairspray, and other cosmetics before putting on your pearl jewelry. These products can contain chemicals that may damage the nacre, the outer layer of the pearl.
  • Household Cleaners: Avoid wearing pearls while cleaning, as household cleaners can contain harsh chemicals that can harm the pearls’ surface.

Proper Storage

  • Soft Pouch or Cloth: Store your pearls in a soft cloth pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box to prevent them from being scratched by other jewelry pieces.
  • Avoid Plastic Bags: Do not store pearls in plastic bags, as some plastics can emit chemicals that can damage pearls over time.
  • Humidity: Pearls thrive in slightly humid environments. Avoid storing them in extremely dry places, as this can cause them to become brittle. A small dish of water kept near your jewelry box can help maintain the right humidity level.

Additional Care Tips

  • Heat Exposure: Keep pearls away from direct sunlight and excessive heat, which can cause discoloration and damage to the nacre.
  • Swimming and Bathing: Remove pearls before swimming or bathing, as chlorinated water and soap can harm the pearls’ surface.

By following proper care guidelines, such as daily cleaning, using gentle solutions, and ensuring appropriate storage, you can keep your pearls looking pristine. At N.T. Ferro Jewelers, we offer professional cleaning and maintenance services to help preserve the beauty and longevity of your pearl jewelry. Visit us to learn more about our expert services and how we can assist you in caring for your treasured pieces.