Wearing real pearls while swimming is a common question for pearl jewelry owners. Pearls are beautiful and precious, but also delicate. Exposure to water, chemicals, and impact can damage pearls. However, with proper precautions, you can safely wear real pearl jewelry while swimming.<
Can you go swimming with real pearls?
Yes, you can swim while wearing real pearls. However, there are risks of damage from the water, chemicals, and impact. Chlorine, saltwater, sunscreens, and oils can all harm pearls. Friction and blows from swimming can also scratch or chip them. With some basic precautions, you can protect your pearls while swimming.
What risks are there to pearls when swimming?
Several factors when swimming can potentially damage pearls:
- Chlorine – Pool chemicals like chlorine can erode and discolor pearls over time. The longer they are exposed, the more damage can occur.
- Saltwater – Saltwater is abrasive and can wear down pearls, especially in waves and surf. Salt can also build up on pearls.
- Sunscreens – Chemical UV-blocking ingredients in sunscreens can react with pearls. Oily residue left on pearls hastens chemical damage.
- Impact – Bumping pearls against pool walls or your body can scratch or chip them. Vigorous swimming and diving increases this risk.
- Friction – Rubbing against straps and fabrics when swimming can erode pearls over time.
Prolonged and frequent swimming in pools or saltwater environments subjects pearls to conditions that can degrade them. With some precautions, the risks can be minimized.
Tips for swimming with pearls
You can safely swim while wearing real pearl jewelry by following these tips:
- Wear pearls only occasionally – Avoid daily swimming with pearls.
- Rinse after use – Rinse saltwater and chlorine off pearls with freshwater after swimming.
- Avoid sunscreens – Don’t apply sunscreen when wearing pearls as it can react with the materials.
- Be gentle – Avoid vigorous swimming or diving to prevent bumps and friction against the pearls.
- Knotted necklaces – Wear knotted strands which have more durable rethreaded construction.
- Shorter lengths – Choose pearl necklaces with lengths of 16 to 18 inches to avoid excessive friction.
- Smooth clasps – Pick earrings, bracelets, and necklaces with smooth clasps to prevent snagging.
- Remove for hot tubs – Take pearls off when using hot tubs, as the heat can damage pearls.
Taking some simple precautions allows you to safely wear real pearls while swimming occasionally. Just be sure to treat them gently, rinse after use, and restrict long-term exposure to water and chemicals.
Types of Pearls for Swimming
Pearls come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and types. Some are more durable than others for swimming. Consider these pearl types when selecting jewelry to wear in the water:
Akoya Pearls
- Cultured in saltwater mollusks
- Smaller size 2mm-10mm
- Various body colors
- Lower nacre thickness
- Prone to chipping
- Avoid vigorous swimming
Akoya pearls are beautiful but best for gentle swimming. Their thin nacre makes them prone to chipping from friction. Wear them for occasional dips, not hours-long swims.
Freshwater Pearls
- Cultured in freshwater mollusks
- Variable sizes up to 13mm
- White, pink, peach, purple colors
- Thicker, durable nacre
- Budget-friendly option
- Lower luster than saltwater pearls
The thick nacre of freshwater pearls makes them a bit more resistant to swimming conditions. Their lower cost also makes them a smart choice for active lifestyles.
South Sea Pearls
- Cultured in saltwater oysters
- Large sizes up to 20mm
- White and golden shades
- Very thick lustrous nacre
- Among the most expensive pearls
- Durable enough for swimming
South Sea pearls are prized for their size and thickness. Their lustrous nacre is resilient enough to withstand short swims. Rinse them after wearing to remove chlorine or saltwater exposure.
Tahitian Pearls
- Cultured in saltwater mollusks
- Intermediate sizes 8mm-16mm
- Dark grey to black colors
- Moderate nacre thickness
- Durable but prone to scratching
- Best for occasional gentle swimming
The beautiful black hues of Tahitian pearls work well for swimming. But their thinner nacre means they should only be worn briefly to prevent scratches and friction damage over time.
Pearl Types to Avoid for Swimming
Some pearl types are too fragile for swimming:
- Natural pearls – Rare and antique natural pearls have delicate nacre.
- Blister pearls – Attached to the shell interior, they are prone to tearing.
- Baroque pearls – Irregular shaped pearls are vulnerable to nicks and cracks.
- Seed pearls – Tiny seed pearls under 2mm can be easily lost.
- Keshi pearls – Small beads with weakened structures.
Avoid antique, organic, and undersized pearls for swimming. Opt for smooth round cultured pearls with thicker nacre.
Pearl Care While Swimming
Proper care of your pearls while swimming helps prevent damage. Here are some effective pearl care tips:
Rinse After Use
Rinsing your pearls after exiting the pool or ocean removes lingering chemicals, sunscreen oils, and salt deposits. Use fresh, clean water to rinse off pearls gently. Pat dry with a soft cloth. Allowing residue to remain on pearls leads to buildup and corrosion over time.
Clean Pearls Regularly
Regular gentle cleaning keeps your pearls looking their best. Use a mild soap and water to lightly scrub pearls. Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning methods which are too abrasive. Have pearls periodically restrung and knots tightened by a jeweler to maintain strength.
Store Properly
Keep pearls in a fabric-lined box or pouch when not being worn. Separate them from other gemstones and metals to prevent scratches. Avoid letting them tangle together. Control temperature and humidity to prevent cracking or drying out.
Be Cautious With Cosmetics and Perfume
Hairspray, perfume, and makeup can harm pearls. Apply these items before putting on pearls to limit exposure. Never spray hairspray or perfume directly on pearls as chemicals can break down nacre.
Take Pearls Off Before Bed
Avoid wearing pearls while sleeping, when they can be damaged if you roll onto them. The pressure can result in cracks or deformities. Remove pearls before going to bed and store properly overnight.
Get Insurance Appraisals
Appraise your valuable pearls with a qualified jeweler. Insist on getting them appraised every 2 to 3 years as values increase over time. Keep records of appraisals for insurance purposes in case pearls are lost, damaged, or stolen.
Avoid Exposing Pearls to Acidic Foods or Scents
Foods and liquids with an acidic pH, like vinegar, wine, and citrus fruits, can erode pearls. Avoid contact with these items when wearing pearls. Strong acidic scents in some cosmetics and cleaners produce similar risks.
By caring for your pearls properly and limiting exposure to harmful substances, you can safely wear them when swimming occasionally. Treat them gently and allow them to air dry to retain their beauty.
How to Tell if Pearls are Damaged From Swimming
Check your pearls regularly for any signs of damage from swimming or general wear:
Chips and Cracks
Small chips on the surface expose the inner pearl layers. This appears as lines or spots on the pearls. Cracks extend deeper through the nacre. Both indicate structural damage.
Pits and Holes
Tiny pits or holes penetrate the outer nacre layer. These happen when pearls bump against surfaces in the water. They expose the inner pearl to damage and worsen over time.
Discoloration
Chemicals and saltwater can alter pearl colors. They may turn shades of grey, brown, green, or yellow if the original luster is eroded. A chalky appearance is also a sign of damage.
Peeling and Flaking
The outer nacre layers can peel off in extreme damage cases. Flaking or blistering on the surface leaves the inner pearl visible and prone to decay.
Loss of Luster
Healthy pearls have a shiny, luminous glow from the reflective nacre layers. As these erode, the trademark pearl luster fades. Dull, matte-looking areas indicate damage.
Deformations
Vigorous swimming can deform pearls out of their original smooth round shape. They may become misshapen, elongated, or flattened. Necklace knots can also loosen and cause shape issues.
Checking your pearls routinely allows you to spot any problematic signs before major decay occurs. Addressing damage early by having pearls re-polished or restrung preserves their integrity and extends their lifespan. With frequent inspections and minor upkeep, your pearls can last for many years.
Conclusion
Real pearls require special care when swimming. Chlorine, saltwater, chemicals, and friction during swimming can damage their soft nacre. But with precautions like rinsing after use, wearing knotted strands, and being gentle, you can safely wear real pearls while swimming briefly. Pick smooth durable varieties like freshwater and South Sea pearls. Avoid fragile natural and seed pearls. Check for any cracks, discoloration or loss of luster periodically. Proper pearl care and maintenance allows you to enjoy their beauty both in and out of the water.