How to Care for Pearl and Gold-Plated Jewelry

How to Care for Pearl and Gold-Plated Jewelry

Quick answer: Put pearl jewelry on last and take it off first. Keep it away from water, perfume, lotion and sweat, wipe it with a soft dry cloth after wearing, and store each piece separately in a box or pouch. Never use jewelry dips, ultrasonic cleaners or toothpaste on pearls or gold plating.

Last on, first off

Perfume, hairspray and lotion are the main enemies of both pearls and gold plating. Get fully dressed and styled first, then add your jewelry.

Wipe after every wear

A soft, dry microfiber cloth removes skin oils before they build up. For a deeper clean, use a barely damp cloth on the pearl only, then let it dry flat.

What not to use

Skip jewelry dips, baking soda, toothpaste and ultrasonic cleaners. They scratch the pearl surface and can wear through the gold plating.

Store pieces separately

Chains and CZ settings can scratch pearls. Keep each piece in its own box or soft pouch, and lay necklaces flat so the chain does not kink.

Take it off for water and workouts

Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, cleaning or exercising. Sweat and chlorine dull plating faster than anything else.

Frequently asked questions

Can I shower with gold-plated jewelry?

It is best not to. Water, soap and shampoo wear down plating over time and can dull pearls.

How do I clean a pearl necklace?

Wipe it with a soft dry cloth after wearing. If needed, use a barely damp cloth on the pearls only and let the necklace dry flat before storing.

Why is my gold plating fading?

Plating softens with friction, sweat and chemicals. Following the last-on, first-off rule and storing pieces dry slows this down.

Shop the collection: pearl earrings · pearl necklaces · pearl bracelets · bridal edit. Free U.S. shipping on orders $70+, 30-day returns.