Looking After Pearls

Pearls are some of the most timeless and elegant gemstones in the world. Unlike other jewels formed deep within the earth, pearls are born in water, created within the shells of oysters and molluscs. Their glow is soft, subtle, and unmistakable - a beauty that only grows with age. But like anything precious, pearls need care.

At Walter Bull & Son, we believe pearls deserve to be worn, enjoyed and passed down. Here’s how to keep yours looking luminous for years to come.

Pearls Are Organic, and That’s What Makes Them Different

Unlike sapphires or diamonds, pearls are organic gems. They’re made from layers of nacre, the same material that lines the inside of an oyster shell. This makes them softer and more porous than most gemstones, which is part of their charm, but also means they react more easily to the world around them.

Everything from perfume and hairspray to skin oils and even the air can affect your pearls over time. That’s why it’s important to treat them with a little more attention and care. A pearl that is properly looked after can retain its lustre for generations.

Wear Them Often, but Wisely

One of the best things you can do for your pearls is to wear them. Pearls benefit from the natural moisture in your skin, which helps keep them hydrated and lustrous. But there’s a balance. They should always be the last thing you put on when getting dressed, and the first thing you take off at the end of the day.

Avoid exposing your pearls to makeup, perfume, or strong hair products. If you're dressing for an occasion, wait until you're fully ready before putting your pearls on. And when the evening is over, give them a quick wipe with a soft, clean cloth to remove any residue from the day.

Store Them Separately and Gently

Pearls are more delicate than most other gemstones, which means they can be scratched easily if stored alongside harder jewellery like diamonds or metal chains. Always keep them in their own pouch or lined box, preferably somewhere with a little humidity to prevent them drying out.

Never store them in plastic bags or airtight containers. Pearls need to breathe, and a little ambient moisture helps them maintain their natural glow. If you’ve inherited a vintage strand or keep your pearls tucked away for special occasions, it’s worth checking on them from time to time to ensure the silk thread hasn’t become brittle.

Clean Them Softly, Never Harshly

Cleaning pearls requires a soft and careful approach. Never use abrasive cloths, ultrasonic machines, or chemical cleaners. The safest method is simply a damp cloth, gently wiped over the pearls and then dried immediately with a soft cotton cloth.

If your pearls are strung on silk, avoid soaking them, as this can weaken the thread. For older strands or pearls that are worn frequently, it’s a good idea to have them restrung periodically, ideally every one to two years, to keep the strand secure and the pearls safely spaced.

Timeless, Natural and Worth the Care

Pearls are one of the only gemstones that don’t need to be cut, shaped or polished. Their beauty is already there, straight from nature. All they need is a little attention and respect. When cared for properly, a pearl necklace or pair of earrings can last not just a lifetime, but many.

At Walter Bull & Son, we offer pearl cleaning and restringing services in our in-house workshop. Whether you wear them every day or save them for life’s most special moments, we’re here to help you look after your pearls, so they continue to look after you.