Pearls don’t sparkle. They don’t refract light the way diamonds do, nor do they flash vivid colors like sapphires or rubies. And yet, few gems carry the same quiet elegance, warmth, and classic beauty. A well-matched pearl necklace or a single luminous pearl on a ring doesn’t shout for attention—it whispers timeless refinement.
But behind their glowing surface lies a complexity that many people don’t realize. Pearls aren’t rocks. They’re organic—born from mollusks, not minerals. Layer upon layer of nacre (also called mother-of-pearl) forms around a small irritant inside an oyster or mussel. This nacre is made of aragonite crystals and proteins—a biological composite that gives pearls their trademark luster and their infamous vulnerability.
Unlike harder gemstones like corundum (sapphires and rubies) or quartz (amethyst, citrine), pearls are soft. On the Mohs scale of hardness, pearls rank around 2.5 to 4.5. That’s lower than a copper penny. Their surface can scratch easily. They’re sensitive to acids, dryness, and even sudden temperature changes. What protects a pearl is also what makes it so fragile: a skin-thin coat of iridescent nacre.
From the highly coveted saltwater Akoya pearls to the larger and more exotic South Sea and Tahitian varieties, and the ever-popular freshwater pearls grown in rivers and lakes—the story is the same. They are living relics from the ocean, and they demand a level of care that most gemstones will never need.
So when it comes to cleaning them—especially with high-powered modern tools like ultrasonic cleaners—caution isn’t just recommended. It’s essential.
Pearl jewelry
Why Pearl Jewelry Gets Dirty So Easily
Despite their delicacy, pearls are worn on some of the most active and exposed parts of the body—around the neck, on the wrist, and especially on the ears and hands. That contact with skin is part of the appeal. Pearls pick up body warmth, they glow more the longer they’re worn, and they almost feel alive.
But here’s the catch: everything that touches your skin also touches your pearls.
Sweat, sebum (natural skin oil), perfume, makeup, sunscreen, hairspray, and even dust from the air all find their way onto the surface of pearls. Over time, this creates a dulling film that blocks the light and hides their radiance. Worse, some of these substances are mildly acidic or oily, both of which can eat away at the outermost nacre layer—permanently affecting a pearl’s surface.
Pearl strands are especially vulnerable. These necklaces are typically strung on silk thread, sometimes knotted between each bead to prevent them from rubbing against each other. While beautiful and traditional, silk is absorbent. When exposed to moisture, it can stretch, stain, or even rot. That’s why even gently soaking a pearl necklace can lead to issues—not because of the pearls themselves, but because of what holds them together.
Earrings and rings have their own challenges. Earring backs often trap oil and soap residue from the scalp or skin. Pearl rings, especially those worn daily, are exposed to hand creams, detergents, and even food.
Cleaning becomes a necessity not just for beauty, but for longevity. Yet it’s a delicate task. And that’s what prompts many to ask: can’t I just pop them into my ultrasonic cleaner?
Let’s talk about that.
Traditional Ways to Clean Pearls and Their Limits
Before the age of home gadgets and electric polishers, pearl care was a quiet, manual affair. And honestly, that’s still the best way for most people.
The golden rule that every jeweler repeats? Wipe your pearls with a soft, damp cloth after every wear. It’s simple, it works, and it prevents buildup from ever getting too serious. But let’s face it—it’s also the kind of advice that’s easy to forget after a long day or a busy night out.
When deeper cleaning is needed, jewelers sometimes recommend using a small bowl of lukewarm water mixed with a drop of gentle, neutral-pH soap. A lint-free cloth (not a brush!) is dipped into the water, wrung out, and used to gently clean each pearl. It’s a slow process, but it protects the pearls, their luster, and the thread.
But there are limits to this approach. If a pearl necklace is decades old or has been exposed to perfume and hairspray over the years, surface damage can’t be reversed with just a cloth. And if the thread has absorbed oils or turned yellow, cleaning won’t fix that either—restringing is needed.
Moreover, people with modern habits—who apply lotion before wearing jewelry or who store pearls alongside harder items like metal chains—often find that surface scratches build up faster than they expect. This fuels the desire for a stronger, deeper clean. Enter ultrasonic cleaners.
But is it safe?
What Is Ultrasonic Cleaning and Why It’s Popular
If you’ve ever used an ultrasonic cleaner, you know the thrill of watching dirt vanish without a single swipe of a cloth. That tiny hum, the subtle vibration of the water—it feels like science fiction. And in a way, it is.
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves, typically around 20 to 200 kHz, to create microscopic bubbles in a liquid solution. These bubbles rapidly form and collapse in a process called cavitation. The energy released from their collapse dislodges dirt, oil, and grime—even from the tiniest cracks and hidden recesses. No scrubbing, no abrasion, no damage to intricate parts. That’s the promise.
Ultrasonic Frequency Select Guide
In practice, ultrasonic cleaners are found in all kinds of places: jewelry stores, dental clinics, optometrist offices, electronics repair benches, and increasingly—people’s homes. They’re used to clean eyeglasses, watch bands, dentures, aligners, retainers, coins, precision tools, and, of course, jewelry.
For jewelry lovers, it’s easy to fall in love with ultrasonic cleaning. Pop in a diamond ring, press start, and three minutes later—it looks brand new. No risk of scratching the setting, no chemical smell, no effort. For people used to cleaning fragile or intricate items, ultrasonic technology feels like a miracle.
So it’s no wonder pearl owners are curious. If it works so well on gold and diamonds, can it clean pearls too?
That’s where things get complicated.
Can Pearls Go in an Ultrasonic Cleaner?
Let’s get straight to it: pearls should not go into an ultrasonic cleaner. That’s the professional consensus across the jewelry industry, and it’s backed by science, personal anecdotes, and many unfortunate accidents.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA)—one of the most respected authorities in the gemstone world—warns against using ultrasonic cleaning for pearls. So do major pearl retailers, such as Mikimoto and The Pearl Source. Why? Because the very things that make ultrasonic cleaning powerful also make it dangerous for pearls.
To understand why, we need to go back to the structure of a pearl.
Remember that pearls are made of nacre, a layered mix of aragonite (a type of calcium carbonate) and organic proteins. These layers are extremely thin and held together with natural binding agents. Cavitation—while gentle on hard materials—can be disastrous for something layered and soft like nacre.
Here’s what can happen when you put pearls into an ultrasonic cleaner:
- Surface erosion: The vibration can strip away the outermost nacre layers, dulling the pearl’s natural luster.
- Cracking and crazing: Cavitation pressure may cause microfractures or “crazing” in the nacre.
- Nacre separation: In severe cases, the layers can literally begin to delaminate.
- Thread damage: If the pearls are part of a strand, the silk thread can stretch, fray, or snap.
And that’s before we even consider the heat generated by ultrasonic baths. Many models warm up as they operate, sometimes reaching 50–60°C (122–140°F). Pearls are sensitive to temperature changes. Heat accelerates dehydration and can cause the organic components to become brittle, especially in older or antique pearls.
Then there’s the solution itself. Some ultrasonic cleaning solutions contain detergents or chemicals meant to lift grime off metal or gemstones—but these can be acidic or alkaline. Pearls are alkaline-sensitive, and any deviation from a neutral pH can cause etching or discoloration.
In short, ultrasonic cleaners are too powerful, too unpredictable, and too harsh for pearls. Even one cycle can permanently reduce a pearl’s value and beauty. And once that damage is done—there’s no polishing it away.
Exceptions and Edge Cases: Are There Any?
In the world of jewelry, not all that glimmers is created equally—and the same goes for pearls. While the general rule is to avoid ultrasonic cleaners for any pearl jewelry, some variations blur the line enough that people start to wonder: are there exceptions?
The answer is… sort of, but you have to tread very carefully.
Let’s begin with imitation pearls, also known as faux pearls or simulated pearls. These are usually made of glass, ceramic, or plastic beads coated with a pearlescent material to mimic the luster of real nacre. Some high-end costume jewelry brands use high-quality coatings that are surprisingly convincing, while others are obviously synthetic.
Imitation pearls may survive a short ultrasonic cycle better than natural or cultured pearls—but that doesn’t mean they should be cleaned this way. Many of these coatings are sprayed or painted on, and the vibration from cavitation can cause them to peel, flake, or discolor. If the pearl is glued into its setting, the ultrasonic waves may loosen the adhesive as well.
Then there are composite pearls, which include materials like shell-based cores coated in multiple layers of nacre. These are more common in budget-friendly jewelry, and while they look great, they’re not built to handle aggressive cleaning. Their layered structure is vulnerable to the same issues as natural pearls: vibration-induced separation and surface dulling.
Some pearl manufacturers now offer treated or coated pearls—pearls that have been finished with protective lacquer or polymer coatings to increase their durability and shine. In theory, these coatings offer extra protection, but even these are not ultrasonic-proof. Many of these treatments are thin and cosmetic. Once breached, the damage can be even worse than with untreated pearls, because the compromised coating peels or exposes uneven surfaces underneath.
What about nucleated vs. non-nucleated pearls? This matters more for farming techniques than cleaning. Regardless of the origin, the nacre is still the vulnerable part—and it’s what ultrasonic waves will target.
In short, while a few synthetic or treated varieties may be more durable than others, no pearl is truly safe in an ultrasonic bath unless it’s a solid metal bead dressed up to look like one. And if you’re unsure what kind of pearl you have, it’s better to assume it’s delicate and opt for a safer method.
How Ultrasonic Cleaners Can Still Be Part of Pearl Jewelry Care
Here’s where things get a little more nuanced. Just because you shouldn’t put pearls directly into an ultrasonic cleaner doesn’t mean you have to avoid ultrasonic cleaning altogether. You just have to change how you use the tool.
For starters, many pieces of pearl jewelry—especially rings, brooches, or earrings—combine pearls with metals like gold, silver, or platinum. Often, it’s these metal parts that attract grime: the crevices around the setting, the backings, or the posts. These can be safely cleaned if you isolate the pearl.
One technique used by professional jewelers is suspension cleaning. This involves holding or suspending the jewelry item so that only the metal portion is submerged in the ultrasonic bath, while the pearl remains dry and untouched above the waterline. Tweezers, thread, or a soft clamp can be used to secure the item in place. This allows the ultrasonic waves to clean the metal areas without exposing the pearl to vibration, heat, or chemical solution.
Another trick: remove the pearl if it’s detachable or if the setting allows it. Some earrings have screw-on pearls or clasps that let you clean the post separately. In such cases, you can run the metal part through the ultrasonic cleaner and then gently wipe the pearl by hand.
If your jewelry contains only imitation pearls and you’re willing to risk some cosmetic wear, a very short ultrasonic cycle (1–2 minutes, no heat, and with distilled water only) might be acceptable—but only if the item has no sentimental or financial value.
Also, ultrasonic cleaners can still be used to clean the retainer box, jewelry box trays, or accessories that contact the pearl jewelry, helping you maintain a more hygienic storage environment.
So yes, you can still use your ultrasonic cleaner as part of a pearl-care routine—just not for cleaning the pearls directly. Think of it as a supporting tool, not a one-stop solution.
Safer Alternatives to Ultrasonic Cleaning for Pearls
If ultrasonic cleaning is off the table, what can you do to keep your pearls looking radiant? The good news is that caring for pearls doesn’t have to be complicated or high-tech. In fact, the safest solutions are often the simplest.
At the core of pearl maintenance is the post-wear wipe-down. This isn’t optional—it’s the pearl-care equivalent of brushing your teeth. Every time you remove your pearl jewelry, give it a quick wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth (microfiber or chamois is ideal). This gentle action removes surface oils, sweat, and environmental residue before it has a chance to sink in. The longer these contaminants stay on the pearl’s surface, the more likely they are to dull the nacre.
For more stubborn buildup, especially on pearls that haven’t been worn (or cleaned) in a long time, you can perform a light spot cleaning. Dampen your cloth slightly with lukewarm distilled water and add a tiny drop of mild soap—preferably a neutral-pH baby shampoo or pearl-safe jewelry cleaner. Gently dab the pearls, avoiding rubbing or scrubbing motions, then immediately dry them with a clean cloth. Never soak them. And never use a brush.
For pearl strands, pay close attention to the stringing thread. If the silk looks stained, stretched, or frayed, cleaning won’t help—it’s time to restring. Most jewelers recommend restringing pearls every one to two years if they are worn frequently. This not only protects against sudden breakage but ensures the pearls stay spaced evenly and don’t rub against each other.
If you’re unsure about what to use, commercial pearl-cleaning kits are available. These typically include pH-balanced cleansers, gentle cloths, and care instructions. Just be sure to choose a reputable brand. Avoid anything that promises “deep cleaning” or contains brightening agents, abrasives, or ammonia.
And when in doubt—visit a professional jeweler. Most offer cleaning services and can examine your pearls under magnification to spot cracks, nacre loss, or other hidden issues. A jeweler may also polish the gold settings or check for loose prongs while they’re at it, offering peace of mind.
Your pearls don’t need aggressive cleaning—they need gentle attention, regularly given.
Practical Tips for Long-Term Pearl Care
Caring for pearls goes beyond cleaning. In fact, much of what keeps pearls beautiful over the long term has more to do with how you wear, store, and treat them than how often you wipe them down.
The first rule of thumb? “Last on, first off.”
Pearls should be the last thing you put on after getting dressed, and the first thing you take off when you get home. That means applying perfume, hairspray, lotion, and makeup first—then adding your pearl earrings or necklace. These products contain alcohols, oils, and acids that can erode nacre and cause premature yellowing or pitting.
Next, think about storage. Pearls are soft, and their surface can be scratched by other harder jewelry—especially metals and gemstones. Don’t toss your pearls into a jewelry box with diamond rings or silver chains. Instead, keep them in a soft pouch, a silk-lined compartment, or their original case. If you have a strand, make sure it lies flat, not hanging—this prevents stretching the thread over time.
Humidity is also important. Pearls need a bit of moisture to stay healthy. Stored in overly dry conditions (like a safe deposit box or an air-sealed plastic bag), they can become brittle. Some jewelers even recommend keeping a slightly damp cotton pad near stored pearls in dry environments to maintain a gentle ambient humidity.
If you wear your pearls often—especially necklaces—restringing is a must. Oils from your neck, sweat, and environmental humidity all weaken silk over time. A well-cared-for strand should be restrung every year or two, with knots between each pearl to prevent rubbing and to avoid losing the whole strand if it breaks.
Finally, rotate your collection. If you have multiple pieces, give your favorites a rest now and then. Constant wear accelerates wear and tear, even if you’re careful.
With these small adjustments, your pearls can maintain their glow for decades—even generations. They’re not fragile ornaments to be hidden away. They’re natural treasures that thrive with mindful use.
What Jewelry Experts Say: Caution, But Don’t Panic
Speak to any jeweler who’s worked with pearls for long enough, and you’ll hear a mix of reverence and realism. Pearls are special, no doubt—but they’re not glass. They don’t shatter if you breathe on them, and they’re not impossible to clean. What they require is awareness—not fear.
One of the most common misconceptions people have is that pearls are “too delicate to wear.” That’s simply not true. Pearls were worn daily by queens, debutantes, and grandmothers for centuries—well before ultrasonic cleaners and synthetic coatings ever existed. What preserved those pearls wasn’t fancy technology. It was habits. Gentle cleaning. Occasional restringing. Common sense.
Professional jewelers stress that the real danger isn’t in wearing pearls or even cleaning them—it’s in forgetting that they’re organic. “People treat them like diamonds,” one jeweler told us. “They scrub them with toothbrushes, put them in harsh cleaners, throw them in with their chains. Then they wonder why the pearls turn yellow or go dull.”
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) offers clear and simple guidance: never use ultrasonic cleaners on pearls, and avoid steam cleaning. They recommend gentle wiping and professional care when needed. That’s echoed by retailers like Tiffany & Co. and Mikimoto, who warn customers explicitly against ultrasonic cleaning.
Still, jewelers also say not to panic. Most damage to pearls happens slowly, over time—not instantly. And many cosmetic problems—like dullness or uneven luster—can be improved by cleaning and polishing, as long as it’s done safely. Nacre loss or cracking, however, is irreversible, so the key is to avoid reaching that point in the first place.
Bottom line? You don’t need to baby your pearls. But you do need to respect them.
The Real Message for Ultrasonic Cleaner Owners
Here’s the part that brings it all together—especially for those who already own ultrasonic cleaners and want to get the most out of them.
Owning an ultrasonic cleaner doesn’t mean you have to give up your pearls. It just means learning when and how to use that powerful tool appropriately.
Your ultrasonic cleaner is still perfect for:
- Gold and silver rings
- Diamond and sapphire jewelry
- Glasses and watch bands
- Retainers and dentures
- Tools, coins, and small electronics
You can still use it for cleaning around the pearl—the metal prongs, the earring backings, or the pendant setting—using suspension techniques or partial submersion. You can even clean accessories that your pearls come into contact with, like storage trays or chains.
But when it comes to the pearls themselves, treat them like fine silk or handmade porcelain. No cavitation, no vibration, no extreme heat, no chemical soaks. Just the old-school wipe-down, some warm water, and occasional professional help.
And here’s something to consider: having an ultrasonic cleaner in your care routine might actually make you better at maintaining all your jewelry. Once you see the before-and-after difference on your other pieces, you’ll understand why it’s so important to use the right method for the right material.
So, don’t fear the ultrasonic cleaner. Just know when to keep your pearls out of the tank—and in the spotlight where they belong.
Final Thoughts: Gentle Beauty Requires Gentle Care
Pearls are the poetry of the ocean—organic, luminous, and timeless. Unlike gemstones forged under the Earth’s crust, they are born in the soft tissue of living mollusks. That’s what makes them unique, and also what makes them vulnerable.
In an age where convenience often trumps caution, it’s tempting to drop every piece of jewelry into an ultrasonic cleaner and call it a day. But pearls ask us to slow down. To pay attention. To treat them with the reverence their origin deserves.
And maybe that’s not such a bad thing.
Yes, ultrasonic cleaners are extraordinary tools. They bring brilliance back to diamonds, dissolve grime from intricate settings, and breathe life into dull metals. But with pearls, the story is different. Their beauty is subtle. Their maintenance is personal. And their care depends on consistency, not intensity.
So can pearls go in an ultrasonic cleaner? Technically, no. Practically, absolutely not. But that doesn’t mean ultrasonic cleaning can’t live alongside pearl ownership. With the right balance, both can exist in harmony.
Your pearls don’t need high-tech care. They just need your care.