Jewelry Care

A little attention after each wear helps keep delicate materials at their best.

Pearls

Pearls are soft and can be scratched. Keep them away from perfume, hair products, household chemicals, and excessive heat. Put jewelry on after cosmetics and fragrance have settled, and wipe pearls gently with a clean, soft cloth after wearing.

Do not use an ultrasonic or steam cleaner on pearls. For mixed-material pieces, avoid soaking and choose the gentlest method suitable for every component. Ask for product-specific guidance when a piece contains thread, adhesive, clay, gemstones, or a plated finish.

Metal finishes

Gold-filled, gold-plated, gold vermeil, and sterling silver are different materials. Surface finishes can change with use and exposure. Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, vigorous exercise, and household cleaning; do not interpret a karat number as a waterproof or allergy guarantee.

Storage

Store pieces separately so pearls and polished surfaces do not rub against harder jewelry. Keep chains fastened and untangled, and do not close clasps around delicate pearls. Use soft pouches or lined compartments rather than piling jewelry together.

Fit and handling

Handle threader chains and small connectors gently. Adjust an open ring or adjustable bracelet conservatively rather than bending it back and forth repeatedly. If a fastening seems loose or a setting changes, stop wearing the piece and ask for advice.

More detail

Explore the Journal for pearl, material, and styling guides. For a question about a particular item, contact us with its product name.

Further reading: GIA Pearl Care and Cleaning and FTC guidance on gold and silver jewelry.