Upcycling Vintage Glass Pearls: Need Some Tips Please

by Kristina.
(Taylor, MI)

I’ve recently been the recipient of a whole bunch of vintage costume jewelry from my sister’s mother-in-law, who runs estate sales. I’ve separated out the jewelry by type and looked the piece over for wear and tear.

Unfortunately a few of the glass pearl necklaces have either been worn quite a bit, or mishandled somehow. The paint is coming off the pearls.

I would like to know if anyone knows a way to remove this paint while keeping the beads intact?

Also, what kind of paint or finish could I use to re-purpose them, if any?

I would like to up-cycle as much of the materials as I can, rather than just throw them away.

Kristina