Bonus Episode: Caring for Pearls

Luxe Looks on a Budget with Tanya Calmwood

Discover personal style advice and inspiration to elevate your look without breaking the bank. This blog offers a personal style guide focusing on mastering fit, fabric, and versatile wardrobe choices. Learn practical personal style tips for women to create timeless outfits and polished appearances. Get easy-to-follow personal style ideas that help you project confidence and sophistication every day.

Preserve Your Pearls by Properly Cleaning, Storing, and Repairing Them

Taking Care of Pearls

Pearl Care, Storage, and Repair

Caring for Real Pearls: Real pearls are delicate, organic gems that require gentle handling to maintain their luster. Always put your pearls on last—after applying perfumes, hairsprays, or lotions—to avoid chemical exposure that can dull their surface. After wearing, wipe your pearls gently with a soft, damp cloth to remove body oils or residues. Clean them occasionally with mild soapy water, but never soak them or use harsh cleaners. When restringing, opt for silk thread and have them professionally restrung every few years if worn often.

Storing Real Pearls: Store real pearls flat in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box, away from other jewelry that could scratch their surface. Pearls benefit from a bit of humidity, so avoid airtight containers or safety deposit boxes for long-term storage, which can dry them out and cause cracking. Never hang pearl necklaces, as this can stretch the silk thread over time.

Repairing Pearls: If your pearl jewelry shows signs of wear—such as fraying silk thread, loose pearls, or a weakened clasp—it’s time for a repair. Frequent wearers should consider professional restringing every two to three years to maintain security and prevent accidental loss. Repairs like restringing and fixing clasps are best handled by a professional jeweler, especially for real pearls, as improper handling can damage their delicate surface or compromise their integrity. DIY repairs are generally not recommended for real pearls.

Faux Pearl Care, Storage, and Repair

Caring for Faux Pearls: Faux pearls are generally more resilient than real ones, but they still need some care. Avoid abrasive cleaners or rough scrubbing, as many faux pearls are coated and can lose their shine. Wipe them down with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth after wearing. If needed, use a gentle soap solution, but avoid soaking, especially if they are glued rather than strung.

Storing Faux Pearls: Faux pearls can be stored in a similar way—separated from other jewelry to prevent scratching. They aren’t as sensitive to humidity, but it’s still best to keep them in a soft pouch or box to protect their finish. Hanging faux pearl necklaces is generally fine, as the thread or wire is often sturdier, but check for any signs of stretching or wear over time.

Repairing Faux Pearls:  Faux pearls can often be repaired at home, especially if the issue is simple, such as a loose clasp or minor thread stretching. If a string breaks, you can restring faux pearls yourself using jewelry wire or sturdy thread, making sure to knot between beads to prevent them from rubbing against each other. For pearls that are glued onto settings and have come loose, a small dab of a clear jewelry adhesive can reattach them securely. However, if the damage is extensive—like severe chipping of the coating or complex necklace designs—a professional jeweler may be needed for a seamless fix. If faux pearls are heavily damaged or their finish is flaking beyond repair, it may be best to retire them or repurpose the beads for crafts.

With a little care and smart storage, faux pearls will keep their beautiful look and last for years, ready to elevate any outfit.

What Shall We Wear Next?

As we wrap up today’s episode, it’s clear that elegance is always evolving. Step out in your personal style and let the world see who you are!

And as always, investing in even one thoughtfully chosen pearl piece can add instant luxury to your wardrobe. Until next time, stay stylish, stay curious, and keep celebrating fashion’s incredible pearl journey.

Thank you for joining me on Luxe Style Secrets. If you enjoyed today’s dive into the world of pearls, be sure to subscribe and share this episode with your fellow fashion enthusiasts. Until next time, stay radiant, stay curious, and keep embracing the luxe life.

Luxe Looks: Master Wealthy Style On A Budget Discover How To Elevate Your Style Without Breaking The Bank. Get Your Copy Today! link Shop Now