Caring for Your Pearl Jewellery: From New to Heirloom Pieces

Whether you’ve just purchased a stunning new set of pearls or have inherited a beloved family heirloom, knowing how to care for your pearl jewellery is key to preserving its beauty for generations. Pearls are delicate gems, and unlike harder gemstones, they require special attention to keep their lustre and charm. At Canadian Jewellers, we want to help you maintain your pearls’ timeless elegance with easy tips and tricks to ensure your pieces stay as beautiful as the day you first wore them.

Treat Your Pearls Gently

Pearls are natural, organic gems that need to be handled with care. Never toss your pearls into a box or onto a hard surface, as they can easily be scratched or damaged. Whether you’re wearing a fresh strand or a vintage piece passed down through generations, handle them gently to avoid chips or cracks. Keep your pearls in a soft cloth bag or pouch when not in use—this will protect them from any rough surfaces that could cause damage.

Pro Tip: When storing your pearls, make sure they aren’t rubbing against other pieces of jewellery. Harder gemstones like diamonds can scratch your pearls, so it’s best to store them separately to keep them protected from abrasions. This is especially important for heirloom pieces that may already show signs of wear—proper storage will help preserve their beauty for future generations.

Avoid Harmful Chemicals

One of the most important rules for caring for your pearls is to keep them away from harsh chemicals. Everyday items like cosmetics, hairspray, perfume, and cleaning products can dull the surface of your pearls over time. Always put your pearls on after applying makeup, perfume or hair products, and be sure to wipe them down with a soft, slightly damp cloth if they come into contact with perspiration or chemicals throughout the day.

And remember, never clean your pearls with anything containing bleach, vinegar, ammonia, or harsh detergents. These chemicals can damage the surface, causing irreparable harm to the pearls’ delicate nacre.

Nacre is the smooth, iridescent substance that forms the outer layer of a pearl. It is produced as a defense mechanism, layering over an irritant inside the mollusk’s shell. The thickness and quality of the nacre determine the pearl's luster, durability, and overall beauty, making it a crucial factor in the value of the pearl. The more layers of nacre, the more radiant the pearl appears.

Keep Them Moisturized (Yes, Really!)

Believe it or not, pearls need a little moisture to maintain their natural shine. Pearls are formed in water, and they need some moisture in their environment to avoid drying out. Avoid storing your pearls in plastic bags or very dry areas, like a safe deposit box, for extended periods of time. Prolonged dryness can cause the surface to craze—a pattern of tiny cracks, similar to dried mud.

To keep your pearls happy and hydrated, store them in a soft, breathable cloth bag. And don’t forget to wear them! The natural oils from your skin help to maintain the pearls' lustre.

Watch Out for Fabrics

When wearing your pearls, be mindful of the fabrics you pair them with. For example, the coarse texture of fabrics like Shetland wool and denim can scratch or damage the delicate surface of your pearls, especially if they rub against it repeatedly. Try to stick to smoother, softer materials when wearing your favourite pearl pieces.

Clean with Care

While pearls may seem fragile, water doesn’t hurt them—in fact, they were "born" in it! If your pearls get dirty or exposed to a spill, give them a gentle bath. Soak them in lukewarm water with a mild natural soap (not detergent) and rinse thoroughly. Once they’re clean, wrap them in a soft cotton cloth to dry—don’t hang them to avoid stretching the silk thread. After they’re dry, wear them again to return some of your skin’s natural oils to the pearls.

And remember, avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners—they can damage the delicate silk thread or the pearls themselves.

Be Cautious with Heat

Heat and pearls do not mix! Never leave your pearls near direct heat sources like fireplaces, stoves, or even in direct sunlight for long periods of time. Extreme heat can cause the pearls to lose their lustre or even crack. If you need to store your pearls, make sure they’re in a cool, dry place, away from heat sources.

Keep an Eye on the String

For both new and heirloom pearls, it’s a good idea to have your pearls re-strung every few years, especially if you wear them often. Over time, the silk thread that holds your pearls together can weaken and stretch. If your pearls are looking a little loose, bring them to us at Canadian Jewellers, where we can re-string them to keep them secure and looking fresh.

Protecting Your Investment

For heirloom pearls or valuable new pieces, consider insuring your jewellery. Pearls are fragile and, in some cases, irreplaceable. Accidents can happen, whether through wear or unforeseen circumstances, and having your pearls insured will give you peace of mind. At Canadian Jewellers, we recommend insuring your pearl jewellery thought Jewelers Mutual. This way, you’ll be able to protect your cherished pieces, whether they hold sentimental or financial value, and ensure they’re covered in case of loss or damage. Learn more about insuring your pearls through Jewelers Mutual here.

Taking good care of your pearl jewellery will ensure it remains a treasured piece for years to come. Whether you’ve just invested in new pearls or are cherishing a family heirloom, following these simple tips will help keep your pearls looking radiant. If you ever need help with care, re-stringing, or appraisals, we at Canadian Jewellers are always here to assist. Shop our beautiful pearl collection here, and let us help you find timeless elegance in every piece!