The Ultimate Guide to Freshwater Pearl Care & Maintenance

Freshwater pearls are organic gemstones, born from nature and refined by hand. Unlike factory-mass-produced jewelry, the AAAA-grade freshwater pearls used by The Chubby Paw possess a unique luster and "soul" that requires specific care to maintain their radiance.

Whether you own one of our nature-inspired floral pieces or a custom-designed pearl heirloom, follow this structured guide to ensure your jewelry remains a miniature work of art for decades.

1. The "Last On, First Off" Rule

Pearls are sensitive to acids and chemicals found in daily beauty products. To preserve the nacre (the outer coating):

• Last On: Apply hairspray, perfume, and makeup before putting on your pearls. Wait at least 10 minutes for chemicals to settle.

• First Off: Remove your pearl jewelry as soon as you get home to prevent accidental exposure to household cleaners or sweat.

2. Cleaning Techniques for Natural Luster

Since The Chubby Paw uses high-quality 925 Sterling Silver and Thick K-Gold Plating, you must clean both the metal and the pearl carefully.

• After Each Wear: Wipe your pearls with a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to remove skin oils.

• Deep Cleaning: Use a drop of mild, pH-neutral ivory soap in lukewarm water. Dip a soft cloth in the solution and wipe the pearls gently.

• What to Avoid: Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, or abrasive brushes. These will permanently damage the delicate surface of a freshwater pearl.

3. Proper Storage & Hydration

Pearls are "living" gemstones that contain trace amounts of water.

• Breathability: Avoid airtight plastic bags. Store your jewelry in the soft pouch provided by The Chubby Paw or a silk-lined jewelry box.

• Isolation: To prevent scratches from harder gemstones (like diamonds or sapphires), store pearls in their own dedicated compartment.

• Hydration: Pearls need moisture from the air. If stored in a very dry environment (like a safe) for too long, they may crack. Wearing them frequently allows them to absorb natural oils from your skin!

4. Maintenance of Custom & Handcrafted Settings

At The Chubby Paw, we specialize in handcrafted boutique quality rather than mass-market casting. This means our settings—from intricate vines to custom pet portraits—have fine details that need attention:

• Check the Settings: Periodically ensure that the prongs or adhesive holding the pearl remain secure.

• Restringing: If your pearls are on a strand, have them professionally restrung every 1–2 years if worn frequently to prevent the silk thread from stretching or snapping.

Why Choose Freshwater Pearls from The Chubby Paw?

In a world of mass-produced luxury markups and inconsistent Etsy quality, The Chubby Paw occupies the "Sweet Spot" of boutique craftsmanship.

From Our Hands to Yours

We don't just sell products; we create emotional milestones. Whether it’s a gift featuring your child's drawing paired with a pearl or a memorial piece for a beloved pet, our materials are chosen for their weight, reflection, and longevity.