Caring for your Pearls

Pearls, bestowed upon us by nature, are a truly precious gift, often revered as the "Queen of Gems" for their graceful and elegant allure. To ensure the enduring beauty of these treasures, it is essential to handle them with care.

Always gently clean your pearls using a soft cloth after use and store them in a secure haven, safeguarding their exquisite charm for years to come. Getting them professionally cleaned and restrung periodically can also help to ensure the longevity and in excellent condition for future generations to cherish.

Common Mistakes & Misconceptions about Pearls

“Since pearls come from the waters, I can wear it to bath or swim.”

Pearls form within layers of nacre, rather than being directly in contact with water. When exposed to chemicals during activities like bathing and swimming, the corrosive effects can compromise their radiance and lustre.

“I should wear these expensive pearls less, so they won’t be worn out.”

Regularly wearing pearls is an effective way to preserve their lustre, as the natural oils from our skin can serve as a form of protection for the pearl's surface.

Allowing pearls to remain unused for extended periods may lead to yellowing, oxidation, or even cracking, especially if they become dehydrated due to prolonged storage

“Pearls will definitely turn yellowish as they age. It’s just their aging process!”

The saying that "one getting old like a pearl becoming yellow" does not correlate with the maintenance of pearls and it is a misconception.

The longevity of a pearl is significantly influenced by proper maintenance. With diligent care, pearls can last for over a century. Conversely, pearls that lack adequate attention or are frequently exposed to chemicals may lose their shine within as little as one to two years.

Common Questions about Care and Maintenance

Pearls exhibit sensitivity to various factors, with chemicals being particularly impactful. To safeguard their lustre and prevent potential damage, a practical approach is to wear pearls last, minimizing their exposure to external elements.

When pearls are worn, they inevitably come into contact with your skin, transferring creams, dirt, and other substances onto their surface. A recommended practice is to remove and clean your pearls upon returning home as this practice prevents the accumulation of these substances on the pearl's surface, effectively preserving their integrity and preventing potential damage.

The surface of pearls is susceptible to damage if it comes into contact with substances like perfume, hairspray, or makeup. Due to their porous nature, pearls can absorb these substances, leading to dullness, discoloration, or even pitting.

If your pearls encounter such products, it is crucial to clean them gently, such as wiping them with a soft cloth dampened with water. It is advised to steer clear of harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to preserve your delicate pearls.

Gently wipe the pearls with a soft, damp cloth to eliminate any lingering traces of perfume, hairspray, or makeup.

For persistent stains that does not come off with soap and water, consider bringing your pearls to our Pearly Lustre store for a thorough, professional cleaning. Our specialized cleaning solutions and tools are designed to remove stubborn stains effectively without causing any harm to the delicate pearls.

  1. Keep your pearls looking their best by gently wiping them with a soft, damp cloth to remove accumulated dirt, oils, or perspiration.
  2. Shield your pearls from potential discoloration and brittleness by avoiding storage in direct sunlight or high temperatures.
  3. Prevent scratches and damage by refraining from wearing your pearls during activities that pose such risks.
  4. Store your pearls in a jewellery box to minimize the likelihood of scratches and other forms of damage.
  5. Embrace the beauty of your pearls through regular wear as it helps prevent them from becoming overly dry or brittle. Don't hesitate to showcase your pearls but remember to handle them with care when putting them on and taking them off, so as to ensure their longevity and continued elegance.
  1. Store your pearls in Pearly Lustre's dedicated jewellery box or bag, shielding them from potential scratches and damage to preserve their pristine surface and keep pearls separate from other jewellery items that may cause abrasions.
  2. Pearls are susceptible to damage from chemicals like perfume, hairspray, and makeup. Avoid direct contact by refraining from spraying these products onto your pearls. Prioritize putting on your pearls last during your grooming routine and removing them first when you reach home.
  3. Over time, the silk thread that binds your pearls may weaken, risking breakage. To prevent loss and maintain the integrity of your pearls, enlist the expertise of Pearly Lustre for restringing every few years. This measure ensures your pearls remain securely in place, preserving their beauty for years to come.

Store your pearls in a Pearly Lustre jewellery box or pouch which provides a protective shield against scratches and potential damage. Ensure that they are kept separate from other jewellery to prevent surface abrasions.

Shield your pearls from adverse environmental factors by storing them away from heat and direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure may lead to discoloration or even cracking.

Steering clear of contact with chemicals like perfume, hairspray, and makeup, as these substances have the potential to mar the surface and diminish their radiance.

Adopting these precautions will extend the life and brilliance of your precious pearls.

For pearl necklaces or bracelets, consider storing it flat instead of hanging, as this practice helps to mitigate the risk of the silk thread stretching or weakening over time.

Regular Wear: Embrace the organic nature of pearls by wearing them regularly. This ensures they receive the necessary moisture to preserve their lustre, preventing them from becoming dry and lacklustre.

Keep Them Clean: Wipe your pearls with a soft, damp cloth on a regular basis to eliminate accumulated dirt, oils, or perspiration. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap solution when necessary, ensuring your pearls remain pristine.

Temperature Caution: Shield your pearls from extreme temperatures, whether it's heat, direct sunlight, or severe cold. These conditions can compromise the surface of the pearls, so exercise caution to maintain their integrity.

Proper Storage: Store your pearls with care, using a jewellery box or pouch to protect them from potential scratches and damage. Avoid hanging them to prevent stress on the silk thread.

Gentle Handling: Treat your pearls delicately; refrain from pulling or tugging on them and avoid wearing them during activities that might result in scratches or damage.

By adhering to these practices, you can preserve the enduring beauty and lustre of your pearls, ensuring that they remain a timeless treasure for generations to come.