The short answer: No, you should take off your pearl jewelry before showering. A single splash of water won't cause immediate damage, but regular showering with pearls will make them dull over time.
Why water and soap damage pearls
- Soap and shower gel leave a film on the surface that dulls the luster. Some ingredients also attack the nacre.
- Limescale in the water builds up—especially in regions with hard water, such as many parts of Switzerland.
- Hot water and steam damage the nacre and can loosen the adhesive on glued pearls.
- Strung pearl necklaces absorb water. The silk thread stretches, discolors, and weakens.
What about swimming, saunas, or sports?
Even more damaging than showering: chlorine in swimming pools and saltwater in the sea directly attack the nacre. In the sauna, intense heat is added, while sports involve slightly acidic sweat. Take off your pearls in all these situations.
What to do if the pearls do get wet?
- Briefly rinse off any soap residue with clear, lukewarm water.
- Immediately pat the pearls dry with a soft cloth.
- Let the jewelry air-dry completely on a flat surface before putting it away—not on a heater and not with a hairdryer.
Does this also apply to pearls on silver or gold chains?
Yes. Even if there is no silk thread involved, the pearl itself remains sensitive. With gold-plated jewelry and gold vermeil, water and soap also wear down the gold layer more quickly.
The simple habit
It's best to designate a permanent place in the bathroom, such as a small dish where you can put your jewelry before showering. You can find more tips in our guide Caring for pearl necklaces.
Discover our pearl jewelry—for example, the pearl stud earrings with crystal halo for everyday wear.