Jewellery care · 3 November 2026

How to clean pearl jewellery safely at home

The short answer: wipe pearls with a soft, slightly damp cloth, dry them straight away and store them in a soft pouch. Avoid soaking, chemicals and rough scrubbing.

Pearls are organic and softer than most gemstones, so they need gentler care than metal jewellery.

Step by step

1. Wipe after each wear. Use a clean, dry, soft cloth to remove sweat and skin oils.
2. For a deeper clean, dampen a soft cloth with plain water and a tiny drop of mild soap.
3. Wipe each pearl gently. Do not rub hard.
4. Rinse the cloth and wipe off any soap.
5. Dry flat. Lay the piece on a clean towel until fully dry, especially if the pearls are strung on thread.

What to avoid

• Soaking pearls in water.
• Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners.
• Toothpaste, baking soda, vinegar, bleach and alcohol.
• Perfume, hairspray and lotions on the pearls.

Daily habits

• Put pearls on last, take them off first.
• Wear them regularly. Natural moisture from skin helps pearls stay lustrous.
• Check the string or clasp occasionally.

Storage

Keep pearls in a soft pouch, away from harder jewellery that can scratch them. Store necklaces flat rather than hanging, which can stretch the thread.

Need ideas for wearing them? Read how to wear pearl jewellery every day, or shop pearl necklaces and pearl earrings.

Signs your pearls need attention

Yellowing, a chalky surface or a loose, stretched string means it is time for care. Loose or rattling pearls on a necklace may need restringing by a jeweller. Knotted thread between the pearls helps prevent loss if it breaks.

Do and do not

• Do check the string every few months.
• Do keep pearls away from heat and direct sun.
• Do not wear pearls while cooking, cleaning or applying products.
• Do not use cotton wool that can leave fibres on a rough surface; a soft microfibre cloth is better.

Plated or coated "pearls", which are common in fashion jewellery, can scratch more easily, so be extra gentle with them.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wash pearls with soap and water?

Use only a damp cloth with a tiny drop of mild soap, then wipe clean and dry. Do not soak.

Why have my pearls become dull?

Residue from perfume, sweat or lotion often dulls them. Gentle wiping usually helps.

Can I wear pearls in the shower?

It is best to avoid it.

How often should I clean pearls?

Wipe them after each wear and give them a gentle damp clean when they look dull.

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