Quick answer: Pearls are softer and more chemically sensitive than most metals and gemstones. Put them on after cosmetics, wipe them with a very soft cloth after wear, avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaning, and store them so harder jewelry cannot scratch them. For mixed pieces, care for the pearl first.

Freshwater pearl and silver bracelet showing natural pearl shape and luster
Freshwater pearl and silver bracelet showing natural pearl shape and luster. Product photography by sunMYLOVE.

At a glance

  • Judge pearls by size, shape, color, luster, surface, nacre and matching.
  • Natural-looking variation is not automatically a flaw.
  • Keep pearls away from perfume, hairspray, acids and high heat.
  • Never use an ultrasonic or steam cleaner on pearls.
  • Let stringing material dry completely before wearing.

Use recognized pearl quality factors

GIA evaluates pearls using seven value factors: size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality and matching. Roundness is only one possible consideration; well-designed baroque pearls can be intentionally irregular. Strong luster shows sharper, brighter reflection. Surface characteristics may be natural, but severe damage can affect durability. In a multi-pearl bracelet, matching should be judged according to the design—uniform for a classic strand or deliberately balanced for an artistic mix. These factors are more useful than vague labels such as ‘premium.’

Daily wear: last on, first off

Apply perfume, hairspray, lotion and makeup before putting on the bracelet and allow them to dry. Remove the piece before swimming, bathing, exercise, cleaning or handling chemicals. Perspiration and cosmetics can affect nacre and stringing material, so wipe the pearls gently after wear. Avoid pulling the bracelet by a single pearl or stretching it across the hand if it uses a clasp. A pearl is an organic gem material; it should be treated as a delicate surface, not scrubbed like metal.

Cleaning without damaging nacre

GIA advises against ultrasonic and steam cleaning. For routine care, use a very soft, clean cloth. When a deeper clean is appropriate, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap and a soft cloth, avoiding long soaking. Rinse residue carefully and lay the bracelet flat on a towel. If the pearls are strung, allow the thread to dry fully before wear. Do not use vinegar, baking soda, toothpaste or silver dip. On pearl-and-silver designs, polish metal locally without touching the pearl.

Storage and periodic inspection

Store pearls separately in a soft pouch or lined compartment, away from harder jewelry and direct heat. Avoid an airtight environment that is excessively dry for long periods, but never store the bracelet damp. Inspect drill holes, knots, cord, clasp and connecting rings. Fraying, looseness or visible gaps are reasons to stop wearing the piece and arrange repair or restringing. Take a clear photograph before service so the order and matching of pearls can be preserved.

Practical decision checklist

  1. Identify the exact material, finish and construction stated on the product page.
  2. Measure the intended wrist and follow that product's sizing convention.
  3. Check how water, cosmetics, friction and storage affect every component.
  4. Confirm quantity, delivery timing, return terms and customization limits before payment.
  5. Save the listing and order record, then inspect the delivered item before wear.

Continue your research

How to use this guide

Use this guide to separate pearl-specific care from the care required by metal, cord and clasp components. Check the listing for pearl type, treatment disclosure and construction, then follow the gentlest method required by the most sensitive part of the bracelet.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use silver cleaner on a pearl bracelet?

Not on the pearl. Clean metal locally only if the product permits it.

Are baroque pearls low quality?

Not inherently. Shape is one factor; luster, surface, nacre and design matching also matter.

Can pearls go in an ultrasonic cleaner?

No. GIA advises that pearls should never be cleaned ultrasonically or with steam.

How often should I restring?

There is no universal interval; inspect frequently and restring when thread shows wear, stretch or looseness.

Sources and editorial scope

Editorial note: Prepared and reviewed by the sunMYLOVE product content team. Material, care and consumer-information statements were checked against the sources above and the store's published product specifications. We do not invent laboratory testing, professional credentials or medical benefits. Last reviewed: July 20, 2026.