Understanding the Pearl Restringing Process
Pearl jewelry is timeless, elegant, and often deeply sentimental. Whether it’s a classic strand passed down through generations or a piece you wear regularly, proper maintenance is essential to keeping it beautiful and secure. One of the most important and often overlooked forms of pearl jewelry care, as with any other beaded jewelry, is restringing.
At Morton & Rudolph Jewelers, we specialize in expert pearl restringing services that preserve the beauty and integrity of your strands. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how pearls are restrung, why it matters, and when it’s time to have your pearls professionally refreshed.
How Are Pearls Strung?
Pearls are traditionally strung on silk or specialized beading cord. To protect each pearl and prevent loss if the strand breaks, small knots are often tied between each bead. This method, called pearl knotting, adds both flexibility and security to your necklace or bracelet.
Over time, friction, natural oils, and daily wear can cause the string to stretch or weaken. That's why the restringing process involves carefully removing each pearl, inspecting it for damage, and then restringing it on a fresh, durable cord. Knots are retied by hand, one at a time, to maintain even spacing and symmetry throughout the piece.
Why Should You Restring Your Pearls?
Pearl strands are extremely delicate and dynamic jewelry pieces. As soft, organic gemstones, pearls respond to the environment, movement, and the wearer's skin. The restringing process is crucial to maintaining both the appearance and integrity of your jewelry.
When properly maintained, a restrung pearl necklace or bracelet will sit more comfortably, drape more beautifully, and remain securely intact. It’s a small but vital service that keeps heirlooms in wearable condition, offering peace of mind each time you wear them.
Knowing When It’s Time to Restring
So, how do you know when your pearls need to be restrung? There are a few clear signs:
Gaps between pearls: If you notice stretched cord or slack between knots, it's time.
Discoloration or fraying: A worn-out string can become yellowed, fuzzy, or brittle.
Loose knots: The pearls should stay in place without sliding back and forth.
Time: Even if the strand looks fine, we recommend having your pearl jewelry restrung at least every five years.
If you're unsure whether it's time to restring your pearls, don’t worry. Our team at Morton & Rudolph is happy to examine your strand and offer expert advice on its condition.
How to Care for Your Pearls
Caring for your pearls is just as important as restringing them. To extend your strand’s life, follow these simple tips:
Avoid chemicals: Perfume, hairspray, and lotions can dull pearl luster. Always apply beauty products before putting on your jewelry.
Store with care: Keep pearls flat and separate from other jewelry to prevent scratching. A soft pouch or lined box is ideal.
Wear them often: Pearls benefit from your body’s natural oils, which help maintain their glow.
Wipe gently: After wearing, use a clean, soft cloth to remove oils and moisture.
Regular maintenance, combined with occasional professional restringing, ensures your pearls remain beautiful for decades to come.
Should You Restring Your Pearls at Home?
While some jewelry hobbyists may attempt to restring pearls at home, professional restringing is highly recommended, especially for valuable or sentimental pieces. Pearl knotting requires precision, specific materials, and a steady hand. Mistakes in spacing, tension, or alignment can affect the appearance, durability, and safety of the strand.
DIY kits might seem convenient, but they rarely match the quality or longevity of professional work. In some cases, incorrect restringing can even damage the pearls or cause them to break more easily. For irreplaceable items, especially heirlooms, it’s best to trust your jewelry to experienced hands. Trained professionals not only offer expert restringing but also an inspection of each pearl for any signs of wear, ensuring your necklace or bracelet stays beautiful and strong for years to come.
Restring Your Pearls With Morton & Rudolph
At Morton & Rudolph Jewelers, we treat your pearls with the care and respect they deserve. Whether it’s a treasured heirloom or a beloved modern piece, our pearl restringing process ensures it’s secure, supple, and ready to wear.
Our experts use traditional knotting techniques and the finest quality materials to restore your strand to its original beauty. With decades of experience and a personalized touch, you can trust us to handle even your most cherished jewelry with precision and care.
Let us help preserve your pearls for the next generation. Visit our showroom in Cherry Hill, NJ, or schedule a service consultation to bring your pearl strand back to life!