This is how pearls are cleaned: So that you can enjoy the shine for a long time

Do you have a piece of jewelry with pearls at home? Pearls are the oldest gemstones in the world. They tell a long story and if they are well cared for, you can wear them for a lifetime. It is therefore important to know what you should consider if you own a piece of pearl jewelry or are thinking about buying one.

Why you should clean your pearls regularly

Pearls are organic gemstones and therefore much more sensitive than diamonds. They consist mainly of calcium carbonate and are sensitive to external influences, which is why caring for them makes a real difference. There are a few things you need to bear in mind when wearing your pearl jewelry. Because pearls are softer than diamonds, they scratch more easily, so you should be gentle with your pearl necklace or other pearl jewelry.

Sweat and skin oils attack the surface When worn, the jewelry comes into direct contact with your skin, sweat and natural body oils. These substances are slightly acidic and can tarnish the characteristic pearl luster over time and dull the surface.

Perfume, make-up and cleaning agents are harmful Chemicals from hairspray, sun cream or perfume are deposited on the pearl layer and can damage it permanently. The rule is: put pearls on last, take them off first.

No salt water, no chlorine: Pearls do not belong in the water If you are planning a beach vacation or a day at the pool, you should unfortunately leave your pearl jewelry at home. Salt water will chemically attack the sensitive pearl layer and can permanently destroy the luster. Chlorine, which is used in swimming pools, has an even more aggressive effect: It penetrates the fine structure of the pearl, making it brittle and causing the surface to become dull and cracked.

Is there a difference between real pearls and imitation pearls?

You can recognize a real difference in the pearls by carrying out a so-called tooth test. To do this, carefully rub the pearl against the edge of your front incisors.

A real pearl: feels slightly sandy and rough.

An imitation pearl: feels completely smooth.

The difference between a real pearl and an imitation pearl is therefore mainly recognizable by the surface of the pearls.

You cannot feel the difference between natural and cultured pearls with the tooth test. You can only tell the difference with an X-ray analysis. Cultured pearls are real pearls, but the formation process of the pearl in the oyster is practically artificially triggered by placing a small piece of mother-of-pearl in the oyster. This reacts to the foreign body by enveloping it with its own nacre.

Cleaning pearl jewelry: From pearl necklaces to pearl rings

When was the last time you cleaned your pearl necklace? Removing dirt from your pearls is essential to maintain their beautiful luster.

After each wear, you should gently wipe your pearl jewelry with a slightly damp, soft cloth to remove sweat, skin oils and dust.

If you want to clean your pearls thoroughly from time to time, you can also do this very easily. Prepare a bowl of lukewarm water and add just a small drop of washing-up liquid, soap or pearl care product. Proper care of your pearls is extremely important for their high-quality look and you should never use vinegar or other acidic cleaning agents to clean them. You should also avoid soaking your pearls in water and minimize their contact with water.

If you want to be completely sure that your pearls are in good condition, you can have them checked once a year by a jeweler. However, you should also make sure that the jeweler does not place your jewelry in an ultrasonic bath or similar, as this is also not good for the pearls.

This procedure is the same for every piece of jewelry with pearls, whether earrings, necklaces, rings or bracelets.

Storing pearls correctly

Conclusion

Your pearls tell their own story, because they take a long time to grow. If you look after your pearls as they deserve, they will last you an eternity. So the pearl is actually a beautiful piece of jewelry for ever, which you could even pass on to your grandchildren.