How to Care for a Pearl Necklace

Pearls are a timeless classic, beautiful on every woman and just as versatile and necessary as the proverbial little black dress. With the proper care and maintenance, you can turn your little investment in style into a lifetime accessory that can later become a treasured family heirloom.

Things You'll Need

• Pearl necklace
• Soft cloth
• Felt- or fabric-lined jewelry box

Instructions

1. Follow this little piece of advice I received from the jeweler who sold me my pearls: when dressing, pearls are the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.

2. Protect them from products. Spritz on any hair and or body sprays before you put on your pearl necklace.

3. Wipe them off. When you take off your pearl necklace, use a soft cloth to gently wipe away the body oils that can build up, causing your pearls' shine to dull.

4. Wear them often. The luster of your pearl necklace will only get more beautiful with repeated wear.

5. Store them carefully. Keep your pearls in a lined jewelry box away from other jewelry such as gemstones, which can scratch a pearl's delicate surface.

6. Have your necklace restrung every 1 to 2 years by a professional jeweler. Be sure to specify that your pearls be restrung using genuine silk thread as well as knotted individually to prevent losing pearls should your strand break.

Tips & Warnings

• Should you accidentally get lotion, makeup or other chemical products on your pearls, wipe immediately with a damp (not wet) cloth, and lay flat to dry.

• If you feel your pearls need a thorough cleaning, be sure to get a jewelry cleaner specially formulated for pearl jewelry.

• Don't bathe, shower or swim in your pearls. Exposure to water can weaken the silk thread and cause it to break.

• For long-term storage don't keep your pearls in a safety deposit box, which can cause them to dehydrate.

Resources

• Mikimoto America on pearl care