How to Care for Your Pearls: Keep Them Glowing for a Lifetime
By Angela Q Pearl
Pearls are more than just beautiful jewelry — they’re timeless treasures from the sea, each with its own story, luster, and charm. Whether you wear them daily or save them for special occasions, pearls deserve thoughtful care to keep them Dradiant for years to come.
Here are our top tips for keeping your pearls fresh, glowing, and ready to wear whenever you are:
1. Last On, First Off
Always put your pearl jewelry on last — after makeup, perfume, and hairspray. Chemicals and cosmetics can dull their natural shine. When you're done wearing them, make pearls the first thing you take off to avoid snagging or damaging them with zippers or fasteners.
2. Wipe After Each Wear
After wearing your pearls, gently wipe them with a soft, lint-free cloth. This helps remove any body oils, sweat, or residue that may have settled during the day. A quick wipe goes a long way in preserving their glow.
3. Store Them Separately
Pearls are delicate and can scratch easily if stored with other jewelry. Keep them in a soft pouch, silk bag, or a fabric-lined jewelry box. Avoid plastic bags or airtight containers — pearls need a bit of moisture to prevent drying out.
4. Let Them Breathe
Natural pearls love to be worn! The moisture in the air — and even from your skin — helps maintain their luster. Don't store them in overly dry or hot environments, such as safes or sunny windowsills, which can cause them to become brittle over time.
5. Avoid Water and Chemicals
Take off your pearls before swimming, showering, or cleaning. Chlorine, salt water, and harsh detergents can damage the nacre (the delicate outer layer of the pearl). Always remove your pearls before applying lotions or oils.
6. Check Restringing Needs
If you wear your pearl strands often, it’s a good idea to have them restrung every 1–2 years. Make sure they’re knotted between each pearl — this protects them from rubbing against one another and prevents loss if the strand breaks.
7. Spot Clean with Care
To give your pearls a deeper clean at home, dampen a soft cloth with a mild soap and water solution (never soak them!) and gently wipe each pearl. Rinse with a damp cloth using clean water and dry immediately. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or abrasive cloths.
Pearls Are Meant to Be Loved
At Angela Q Pearl, we design our jewelry for beauty and wearability — but it’s your care that keeps them shining. With just a little attention, your pearl jewelry will remain a symbol of elegance for generations.
✨ Need more tips? Explore our full care guide or shop our bestselling pearl pieces at www.angelaqpearl.com.