DO NOT use acetone! Use glue to replace. by: Anonymous
It is best to glue the mabe pearl(s) back into place after you effect the repair(s) necessary. If you use epoxy - or worse, two-part epoxy - you may make it impossible for any future repairs to be done on the piece.
I'm sure you know that it is always best NOT to remove a pearl unless it's necessary, right? Of course, sometimes it is necessary, and one must just work slowly and carefully. DO NOT use acetone; that could affect the nacre.
Best of luck!
Getting Glue of Pearls by: Ambrosine
Hi Roxanne!
Yes, when repairing pearl jewelry it's sometimes necessary to remove the pearl from the bezel to avoid damaging the pearl. Since most pearls are held in place with glue, the way you can remove the pearl is by gently warming the jewelry piece. You want the part near the pearl to get warm and soften the glue. Most glues will soften with heat, allowing you to pull the pearl off easily.
If epoxy was used to attach the pearl, a soak in a solvent, such as acetone may allow un-glueing pearl removal, but the safer alternative is to try the gentle heating method first.
