There are many reasons to consider adding pearl pendants, earrings, or rings to your collection of jewellery. Pearls’ timeless lustre makes them elegant, romantic, and magical to behold. They also carry symbolic meanings, representing power and wealth. However, one of the most important reasons to consider pearl jewellery is that they are remarkably easy to maintain and keep looking great.
In this article, we’ll run through how to maintain pearls, including several tips to help them retain their lustre for as long as possible. We’ll also answer frequently asked questions about cleaning and storing these gemstones, including ‘can you get pearls wet?’ Read on for insights and information from Volle Jewellery, Sydney’s leading pearls, pink diamonds and opals retailer.
Can Pearl Jewellery Get Wet?
A popular question in jewellery is, ‘can pearls get wet’? Pearls are durable gemstones, as their organic shape won’t change when exposed to water.
Can pearl jewellery get wet? When pearls are strung or threaded into jewellery, prolonged exposure to water could impact the strands and require the necklace to be restrung.
We also often see jewellery lovers and collectors ask the question, ‘can I shower with pearls on?’ While the gems themselves may be able to withstand a trip to the shower, the glue used in settings, strands and threads may be impacted by contact with warm water and soap. To be safe, it is better to remove your pearl jewellery before showering, washing up or swimming.
How to Maintain Pearls: 5 Tips for Longevity
While pearls are known for their durability, they require care and attention like any other piece of jewellery. We’ve put together a few tips on maintaining pearls to keep your jewellery looking its best for years.
- Remove pearls before doing any water-related activities
When bathing, washing clothes or engaging in water sports, pearl jewellery is best left at home. While pearls themselves won’t be damaged by water, the combination of chemicals involved in these activities can affect the appearance of the setting of a ring and the strand of a necklace or pendant. While the answer to ‘can you get pearl rings wet’ is yes, any chemical exposure is best avoided. - Wear pearls after you apply makeup and perfume
Unlike water alone, chemicals can affect the appearance of your pearls. In particular, some chemicals in cosmetics, such as perfume and hairspray, can discolour pearls and soften their lustre over time. To maintain the finish of these organic gemstones, always apply cosmetics before wearing your pearls. - Store your pearls in a soft pouch
It goes without saying that jewellery should be stored in soft, lined containers. Jewellery pouches, presentation boxes and soft, padded cloths offer the best protection for the gemstone and its setting. For more information, see our guide on how to store jewellery properly. - Keep pearls away from other jewellery
Whether it’s a pearl ring or pendant, a set of pearl earrings or loose pearls in your collection, storing each piece in a separate pouch or box is essential. While this practice helps keep your jewellery in good condition, it is also more pleasing to look at, especially if you display your collection while the pieces are not worn.
- Use oil to maintain the lustre of your pearls
A common saying is that ‘pearls love to be worn’. This is partly because the natural oils in your skin help maintain these gemstones’ soft lustre. If your pearls aren’t being worn, apply one or two drops of olive oil to a cloth and gently wipe over them.
Purchase Beautiful Pearl Jewellery from Volle Jewellery
We often hear people ask ‘can pearls get wet?’ As we’ve discussed in this article, your pearls will not be impacted by direct contact with water. However, it is best to keep your pieces away from chemicals in cosmetics, household cleaners and swimming pools, as these may impact the appearance of your pearls and their setting, thread or strand.
Following our simple steps on how to maintain pearls will keep each piece looking spectacular for the next time you want to wear it. If you’re looking to add to your collection, visit Volle Jewellery to view a stunning line-up of pearl rings, earrings, pendants and necklaces. See us in our flagship Sydney store today!