How to Care for Pearls: A Guide to Preserving Their Timeless Beauty
Pearls have been cherished for centuries for their natural elegance and luminous charm. Unlike other gemstones that are mined from the earth, pearls are formed organically inside living mollusks. This unique process gives each pearl its own distinct character, shape, and luster, no two are exactly alike.
In 2025, pearls are enjoying a stylish resurgence. From classic strands to contemporary jewelry designs in a wide range of colors and shapes, pearls are proving they are just as versatile as they are timeless. But because of their delicate, organic nature, pearls require special care to ensure they retain their beauty for generations.
The Formation of Pearls
Most pearls available today are cultured pearls. These are created when a small irritant, often a bead or piece of tissue, is placed inside an oyster or mollusk. Over time, the mollusk coats the irritant with layers of nacre, producing a lustrous pearl. While natural pearls, formed without human intervention, are extremely rare and valuable, cultured pearls provide the same beauty and elegance in a more accessible way.
No matter the origin, pearls deserve the same level of thoughtful care and attention.
Everyday Care and Cleaning
Pearls are porous and softer than other gemstones, which makes them especially vulnerable to scratches, chemicals, and environmental damage. Oils from the skin, perspiration, cosmetics, and even air pollutants can affect their surface and diminish their glow. To keep your pearls radiant:
Proper Storage
Pearls need to be stored thoughtfully to preserve their integrity. Unlike diamonds and other hard gemstones, pearls can easily scratch, and they require moisture to maintain their shine. Follow these storage tips:
Pearls are meant to be enjoyed, and wearing them often actually benefits them. The natural moisture from your skin helps keep them from drying out. However, they do need some extra precautions when worn:
Pearls are more than just jewelry, they are wearable treasures that carry history, elegance, and individuality. With proper care, they can become heirlooms, passed down for generations.
At Hopman Jewelers, we’re proud to carry pearl jewelry collections from designers like ASHI, Stuller and Kim International, who pair classic pearl beauty with modern craftsmanship. From simple strands to pieces accented with gemstones and precious metals, pearls remain one of the most versatile and enduring styles in fine jewelry.
Whether you’ve just purchased your first pair of pearl earrings or inherited a strand from a loved one, remember that a little care goes a long way. With attention and love, your pearls will keep their glow and continue to elevate your style for years to come.
Pearls have been cherished for centuries for their natural elegance and luminous charm. Unlike other gemstones that are mined from the earth, pearls are formed organically inside living mollusks. This unique process gives each pearl its own distinct character, shape, and luster, no two are exactly alike.
In 2025, pearls are enjoying a stylish resurgence. From classic strands to contemporary jewelry designs in a wide range of colors and shapes, pearls are proving they are just as versatile as they are timeless. But because of their delicate, organic nature, pearls require special care to ensure they retain their beauty for generations.
The Formation of Pearls
Most pearls available today are cultured pearls. These are created when a small irritant, often a bead or piece of tissue, is placed inside an oyster or mollusk. Over time, the mollusk coats the irritant with layers of nacre, producing a lustrous pearl. While natural pearls, formed without human intervention, are extremely rare and valuable, cultured pearls provide the same beauty and elegance in a more accessible way.
No matter the origin, pearls deserve the same level of thoughtful care and attention.
Everyday Care and Cleaning
Pearls are porous and softer than other gemstones, which makes them especially vulnerable to scratches, chemicals, and environmental damage. Oils from the skin, perspiration, cosmetics, and even air pollutants can affect their surface and diminish their glow. To keep your pearls radiant:
- Wipe pearls gently with a soft cloth after every wear to remove oils and residue.
- For deeper cleaning, fill a bowl with lukewarm water and add a few drops of mild soap. Dip a soft, lint-free cloth into the solution and carefully wipe each pearl.
- Rinse with another damp cloth to remove any soapy residue.
- Pat dry and allow the jewelry to air-dry completely before storing.
Proper Storage
Pearls need to be stored thoughtfully to preserve their integrity. Unlike diamonds and other hard gemstones, pearls can easily scratch, and they require moisture to maintain their shine. Follow these storage tips:
- Always let pearls dry completely after cleaning before putting them away.
- Avoid sealed plastic bags or airtight safes, as they can dehydrate pearls. Instead, store them in a soft-lined jewelry box or breathable pouch.
- Wrap pearls in a soft cloth to prevent scratching.
- Keep them flat rather than hanging, to avoid stretching the silk or nylon string.
- Store them away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Pearls are meant to be enjoyed, and wearing them often actually benefits them. The natural moisture from your skin helps keep them from drying out. However, they do need some extra precautions when worn:
- Put pearls on last when getting dressed, after applying perfume, hairspray, or lotions.
- Avoid layering pearls with harder gemstones or metals that might scratch them.
- Do not wear pearls while swimming, exercising, or in high heat, sweat and chlorine can cause serious damage.
- Schedule professional cleaning and restringing every few years to ensure they remain secure and in beautiful condition.
Pearls are more than just jewelry, they are wearable treasures that carry history, elegance, and individuality. With proper care, they can become heirlooms, passed down for generations.
At Hopman Jewelers, we’re proud to carry pearl jewelry collections from designers like ASHI, Stuller and Kim International, who pair classic pearl beauty with modern craftsmanship. From simple strands to pieces accented with gemstones and precious metals, pearls remain one of the most versatile and enduring styles in fine jewelry.
Whether you’ve just purchased your first pair of pearl earrings or inherited a strand from a loved one, remember that a little care goes a long way. With attention and love, your pearls will keep their glow and continue to elevate your style for years to come.