How to Care for Pearl Jewelry So It Lasts for Decades
By Irene Nebo, founder of Goddess Glow · Updated 2026-11-12
Last on, first off
Put pearls on after perfume, lotion, sunscreen and hairspray, and take them off first. Chemicals and oils slowly dull the nacre.
Keep them dry
Avoid swimming, showering and the sauna with pearls. Water weakens silk and stretch cord over time and can dull the surface.
Wipe after wearing
Use a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth to remove skin oils. Never use jewelry cleaner, ultrasonic cleaners or toothpaste.
Store them separately
Keep pearls in a soft pouch, away from harder jewelry that can scratch them. Store necklaces flat so the strand does not stretch.
Stretch bracelets
Roll stretch bracelets on and off the wrist instead of pulling them wide; this keeps the cord tight for much longer.
Baroque and peacock pearls
Organic shapes and dark peacock tones are natural. The same care applies; their iridescence stays brightest when they are worn often and kept clean.
