Put pearls on after cosmetics, wipe them with a very soft clean cloth after wear, and keep them away from acids, heat, steam, and ultrasonic cleaners.

A calm pearl routine covering wearing order, after-wear wiping, occasional compatible washing, string drying, separate storage, and clear steam and ultrasonic limits.

What this guide covers

Reduce cosmetics and impact during wear.
Wipe gently after each wearing.
Clean occasionally only when the full construction permits.

Pearl care includes the string and clasp

Complete-piece boundary
Nacre, dye, coating, drill holes, thread, knots, adhesive, metal, and companion stones can all affect care. Do not wet a piece simply because the pearl itself permits occasional soapy water.

Care at each moment

Before wear

Apply perfume, lotion, hairspray, and cosmetics first and let them dry before putting pearls on.

After wear

Wipe each pearl gently with a very soft, clean cloth before separate storage.

Occasional wash

Use warm soapy water only when the string, clasp, treatment, coating, and adhesives allow it; dry thread completely.

A soft routine

1 — Handle with clean hands
Avoid dragging pearls across hard surfaces or neighboring jewelry.
2 — Wipe after wear
Use a very soft clean cloth without polish or abrasive powder.
3 — Check string and knots
Look for stretching, fraying, loosened knots, or movement at the clasp.
4 — Store flat and separate
Keep pearls from harder gems and do not seal them away while any thread remains damp.

Pearl-care questions

Can pearls go in an ultrasonic cleaner?

No. GIA’s pearl guidance excludes both ultrasonic and steam cleaning.

Can I wear a wet strand?

Wait until the string is fully dry so moisture does not remain inside the drilled and knotted construction.

Does every pearl strand wash the same way?

No. Dye, coating, thread, knots, adhesives, clasps, and companion stones can change the answer.

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