How to care for necklaces properly and keep them shining for generations

Luxury necklaces made from precious metals and gemstones are an investment in beauty that can last for generations. With proper care, your pearl, gold, or diamond necklace will shine as brilliantly as it did on the first day.

When to remove a necklace to avoid damage

Although high-quality necklaces are designed for regular wear, there are situations where it’s wiser to remove them to prevent potential damage or loss.

• Household tasks involving chemicals pose a risk to jewelry. Always remove your necklace when using cleaning agents, bleaching products, or harsh soaps. These substances can damage the surfaces of precious metals, dull the finish of rhodium-plated white gold, or even harm certain gemstones. Be especially cautious with pearl necklaces, as pearls are sensitive to acids found in many household products.
• Sports and physical activity are other occasions when it's better to take off your necklace. Sweat contains salts and acids that can degrade delicate materials over time. Intense movement can also lead to tangling or even breakage. Similarly, avoid wearing necklaces while gardening or during other activities where they could be exposed to dirt or mechanical damage.
• Pools, saunas, and spa treatments are also not ideal environments. Chlorine in pool water may damage metals and gemstones, high temperatures can deform fine components, and humid conditions accelerate oxidation.

How to Clean Different Types of Necklaces

Gold Necklaces

Gold necklaces—whether yellow, white, or rose—require a gentle yet thorough approach. For basic cleaning, prepare lukewarm water with a few drops of mild, fragrance-free soap. Soak the necklace for 15–20 minutes to loosen dirt and residue from skin oils and cosmetics.

Then, gently brush it with a soft brush—preferably a children’s toothbrush—paying special attention to chain links and the clasp where grime tends to accumulate. Rinse thoroughly in clean lukewarm water and dry with a lint-free soft cloth.

Rhodium-plated white gold may lose its brilliant shine over time, revealing a subtle yellow tone. In that case, consult a professional for re-rhodium plating to restore its original look.

Pearl Necklaces

Pearl necklaces require the most gentle care. Pearls are organic and much more delicate than other gemstones. Never immerse pearls in water or use chemical cleaners. 

After each wear, gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For visible dirt, use a slightly damp cloth and dry immediately. Avoid aerosol cosmetics—perfumes, hairsprays, and makeup can damage natural luster.

TIP: Have pearl necklaces restrung every two years, as silk thread can weaken, enhancing safety and longevity.

Diamond & Gemstone Necklaces

• Diamonds are the hardest natural material but attract skin oils, which dull their sparkle. Clean them similarly to gold—warm soapy water and a soft brush—especially around settings where dirt hides.
• Sapphires and rubies are resilient but sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Use lukewarm water and avoid harsh chemicals.
• Emeralds often have natural inclusions and are more fragile; never clean with ultrasonic cleaners. Use only lukewarm water and minimal gentle soap.

Proper storage extends the life of your jewelry

The way you store your necklaces when you're not wearing them has a major impact on their lifespan and appearance. The ideal storage space should meet several criteria:

When to contact a jeweler

There are situations when home care is not enough and it is necessary to seek professional help:

• Loosening of stones in the setting - even a small loosening can lead to their loss.
• Damage to the clasp - it can scratch when worn and lead to the loss of the jewelry.
• Visible cracks or deformation of the chain links require prompt repair.
• Loss of shine that cannot be restored by home cleaning.
• Problems with pearls - discoloration, loss of shine or surface damage are reasons for professional cleaning.

Professional service includes thorough ultrasonic cleaning (only for suitable materials), checking all joints and stone settings, polishing the surface and removing minor scratches, and if necessary, strengthening loose parts or replacing worn components.

Professional care also requires:

• Necklaces with moving parts, such as rivieras or necklaces with pendants, require regular inspection of the mechanisms. The links should move smoothly without binding.
• Vintage and collectible necklaces may require specialized care due to the age of the materials and historical processing techniques. It is always better to entrust the care of these pieces to a professional.
• Necklaces combining different materials – for example, gold with pearls or metals with organic elements – require care tailored to the most sensitive component.

At BENY, you have the security of a lifetime guarantee

We provide a lifetime guarantee on all jewelry purchased at BENY, which includes professional cleaning and basic maintenance. We recommend checking every two years, but our experts are available to you whenever you need it.

A beautiful piece of jewelry should shine for generations. That is why we put the same care and precision into each maintenance as our jewelry is made. In the exclusive BENY boutiques in the center of Prague, our experienced jewelers will provide you with comprehensive advice not only on the care of your current jewelry, but will also help you choose new pieces. Do not hesitate to visit us.