How to Care for Pearls and Gemstone Jewellery

Pearls and coloured gemstones bring softness, colour and character to jewellery, but they often require more thoughtful care than plain gold pieces.

Different stones react differently to moisture, heat, chemicals and abrasion, so there is no single cleaning method that works for every piece. Understanding a few basic care principles can help preserve both the appearance of the stones and the security of their settings.

Why Pearls Need Special Care

Pearls are organic gems with a relatively delicate surface. Unlike harder gemstones, they can be affected by perfume, cosmetics, hairspray, sweat and abrasive cleaning products.

A simple rule is:

Last on, first off.

Put pearl jewellery on after applying perfume, makeup and hair products, and remove it before bathing, exercising or sleeping.

After wearing pearls, gently wipe them with a soft, clean cloth before storing them.

How to Clean Pearl Jewellery

Pearls should be cleaned gently.

Avoid:

• harsh chemical cleaners

• abrasive cloths

• ultrasonic cleaning

• steam cleaning

• prolonged soaking

For light cleaning, a soft damp cloth is usually sufficient. If the jewellery needs more thorough attention, professional cleaning is the safer option.

How to Store Pearls

Pearls should be stored separately from harder jewellery.

Diamonds, sapphires and even metal edges can scratch their surface if pieces are stored together.

Use:

• a soft pouch

• a fabric-lined jewellery box

• separate compartments

Avoid throwing pearl jewellery into a jewellery box with rings, chains and harder gemstones.

Caring for Coloured Gemstones

Coloured gemstones vary considerably in hardness and sensitivity.

Some stones are durable enough for frequent wear, while others need much gentler handling.

As a general rule:

• avoid harsh chemicals

• use lukewarm rather than very hot water

• use a soft cloth or very soft brush where appropriate

• dry jewellery thoroughly after cleaning

• do not assume every gemstone is suitable for ultrasonic cleaning

If you are unsure what stone is in a piece, professional cleaning is the safest approach.

Emerald Care

Emeralds are prized for their rich green colour, but they often contain natural inclusions and may also be treated with oils.

Because of this, they should be handled gently.

Avoid:

• ultrasonic cleaners

• steam cleaning

• excessive heat

• strong chemicals

A soft cloth and gentle cleaning are generally preferable.

Ruby and Sapphire Care

Rubies and sapphires are among the harder coloured gemstones and are generally suitable for regular wear.

However, the durability of the stone does not automatically mean the entire piece is indestructible.

Settings can loosen, prongs can bend and jewellery can still be damaged by impact.

Regular inspection is especially important for rings and bracelets that experience frequent contact with hard surfaces.

Opal Care

Opals require more caution.

They can be sensitive to:

• sudden temperature changes

• excessive heat

• dehydration

• hard impacts

Store opal jewellery carefully and avoid exposing it to harsh environmental conditions.

Turquoise and Other Porous Stones

Turquoise and some other gemstones can be porous and may absorb oils, cosmetics and chemicals.

Direct contact with perfume, lotions and cleaning products should be avoided.

These stones are best cleaned with a soft dry or lightly damp cloth.

Can Gemstone Jewellery Go in an Ultrasonic Cleaner?

Not always.

Ultrasonic cleaning can be effective for certain durable stones and settings, but it can damage some gemstones, treated stones and delicate jewellery.

Pearls, emeralds, opals and many treated or porous gemstones generally require greater caution.

If you do not know the exact stone or treatment, avoid ultrasonic cleaning.

How to Store Gemstone Jewellery

Good storage can prevent more damage than frequent cleaning.

Keep pieces:

• dry

• separated

• away from direct sunlight

• in soft-lined compartments

• protected from harder jewellery

Chains should be stored untangled, while rings and earrings should be kept in a way that prevents stones from rubbing against each other.

Check the Setting, Not Just the Stone

Jewellery care is not only about keeping stones clean.

The setting should also be checked regularly.

Look for:

• loose stones

• bent prongs

• damaged bezels

• weak clasps

• worn links

• unusual movement in the setting

If a stone begins to move, stop wearing the piece until it has been inspected.

When Should Jewellery Be Professionally Checked?

Professional inspection is useful when:

• jewellery is worn frequently

• a piece has been dropped

• a stone feels loose

• prongs look worn or bent

• the jewellery has not been checked for several years

• the piece contains valuable or delicate gemstones

Preventive maintenance is usually easier than replacing a lost stone.

A Manufacturer’s Perspective

Good jewellery care begins with good construction.

The stone, setting style, metal support and final weight all need to work together. A delicate design still needs enough structural support to protect the stones during normal wear.

At Adastra, gemstone selection and setting construction are considered alongside the overall design so that the finished jewellery balances appearance, weight, wearability and durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can perfume damage pearls?

Yes. Perfume, hairspray and cosmetics can affect the surface of pearls over time. Apply these products before putting on pearl jewellery.

Can I wash pearls with soap?

Routine soaking is not recommended. A soft damp cloth is usually sufficient for regular care.

Can gemstones scratch each other?

Yes. Harder gemstones can scratch softer stones, which is why jewellery should be stored separately.

How often should gemstone settings be checked?

Pieces worn frequently should be inspected periodically, especially rings and bracelets where stones are more exposed to impact.

Can I sleep in pearl or gemstone jewellery?

It is better to remove it. Sleeping in jewellery can place unnecessary pressure on chains, clasps, prongs and settings.

Are all gemstones safe in an ultrasonic cleaner?

No. Suitability depends on the gemstone, treatments and construction of the jewellery. When in doubt, avoid ultrasonic cleaning.

Final Note

Pearls and gemstones do not all require the same care.

The safest approach is simple: handle them gently, keep them away from unnecessary chemicals, store them separately and have settings checked when needed.

A little preventive care can preserve both the appearance of the stone and the integrity of the jewellery for years to come.