Featured 925 Pearl & Quartz Pendant Necklace

Hi All.

I need to clean the yellow from these pearls. The yellow is a hard substance- I'm wondering if I can soak the necklace in distilled water without discoloring the sterling and pearls and then carefully work on removing these yellow spots with dish soap, water, and a toothpick? I've also read use nail polish remover to whiten yellowed pearls. Has anyone used nail polish and what was your result?

Wondering also if possible to identify the type of quartz? Stone measures 30.3 x 49.9 mm. Thanks again.

 

heat crackled quartz

 

Thanks @Hollyblue- good to know.

 

Are you sure they are genuine pearls? If not, less worry about how to clean.

 

Were bought as FWP? Really not sure.

 

Taking a better look after some time away from the computer, pretty sure they are cerclé freshwater pearls. They come in various colors. Maybe these are supposed to be yellow? It's OK to clean as you propose, if you intend the toothpick for use only to remove grunge from crevices. Not sure you need the presoak, although it will not do any harm. Cameos can get amazingly filthy. I soak them in tap water with a bit of dish soap, sometimes as much as over night, then go at them with a soft toothbrush. I soak again if there are stubborn places. Be sure to give it lots of time to dry before putting away.

 

Thank you Bronwen

 

It is generally advised not to soak pearls. Because pearls are made of porous layers, soaking can cause water and soap to come in between the layers and cause discolouration, dulling of the nacre, and cracking.

Here is information on how to care for your pearls:
https://www.thepearlsource.com/blog/how-to-clean-pearls/

I usually wash pearls with a gentle handsoap between my hands, just like you would gently wash your hands, and just as long. Rinse and dry well.
Officially a gentle wash is a nono as well, so I should say don't try this at home, but it never caused any problems with my pearls.

 

I like the idea of gently washing with hands. I will do that- Thank you Any Jewelry.

 

All I'd add to that is that it needs to be a true soap, not something like a cleansing bar. Often, the cheap unperfumed ones are the least complex in formula.

 

I'm happy to report the pearls came clean easily and beautifully with the handwashing technique. Thanks all : )