How to Care for Pearl Jewelry — The Complete Pearl Care Guide
Care & Trust · July 31, 2026 · 4 min read
The golden rule of pearl care: apply makeup, perfume, and hairspray first, put your pearls on last. Pearls are organic gems and nacre can be damaged by chemicals, heat, and friction. With a few simple habits, your pearls will glow for decades.
Daily care habits
- Put pearls on last, after perfume, hairspray, and lotion.
- Take them off before sleeping, showering, or swimming.
- Avoid chlorinated water, hot tubs, and salt water.
Pearl care do's and don'ts at a glance
Pearl jewelry care quick guide
| Do | Don't |
|---|---|
| Put pearls on last, after perfume and makeup | Never wear pearls onto perfume or hairspray |
| Wipe with a soft dry cloth after every wear | Don't use ultrasonic cleaners, steam or polish |
| Store flat in a soft pouch, away from heat and sun | Don't hang necklaces or store in very dry air |
| Wear pearls regularly — skin oils keep them hydrated | Don't shower, swim, or soak pearls in water |
How to clean pearl jewelry
- Wipe gently with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth after every wear to remove skin oils.
- When needed, use a barely damp cloth with clean water — never submerge.
- Do not use ultrasonic cleaners, steam, ammonia, or jewelry polish on pearls.
How to store pearls
- Store pearls flat in a soft pouch or box, separate from other jewelry.
- Never hang pearl necklaces — the silk thread can stretch and snap.
- Pearls like a little humidity; very dry air can crack nacre. Store away from direct heat and sun.
How to restring pearls
Pearl necklaces strung on silk should be restrung every 1–2 years if worn frequently. Restringing keeps the strand secure and prevents surprise breakage. At D Royals we recommend having any frequent-wear strand professionally restrung periodically.
When to service your pearls
Take pearl jewelry to a jeweler if you notice: loose or wobbly pearls, visible thread, cracks or chips in the nacre, or dulling that doesn't improve with gentle wiping.
The D Royals care promise
We choose pearls that are genuine, certified, and hallmarked — and we include care guidance with every order. Follow this guide and your D Royals pearls will stay beautiful for years.
Keep reading
Shop by category
Featured pieces