How to care for a mother-of-pearl spoon
A mother-of-pearl spoon is beautiful and gentle on caviar, but it is made from shell, so it needs a little care. Here is how to keep one looking and feeling like new.
Washing
- Rinse the spoon with cool or lukewarm water right after use. Caviar is salty, and salt left on shell can dull it.
- If it needs more than a rinse, use a small amount of mild soap and your fingers or a soft cloth.
- Rinse well and dry immediately with a soft towel.
What to avoid
- The dishwasher. Heat and detergent can dull the surface and weaken the layers of shell.
- Hot water. It can make the layers separate or crack.
- Soaking. Don't leave it in water, since moisture can loosen the handle or any glue.
- Acids. Lemon juice, vinegar and some cleaners can etch the surface.
- Abrasives. Scouring pads and rough cloths can scratch it.
Storing
Dry it fully, then store it away from other cutlery so it doesn't get scratched. A soft cloth pouch or a lined drawer works well. Keep it out of heat and direct sunlight, and don't leave it in a hot car.
Polishing
If the spoon looks dull, buff it gently with a soft, dry cloth. A tiny amount of food-safe oil on the cloth can bring back some shine, but wipe the spoon clean before it touches food.
Keep it for caviar
A spoon that is used only for caviar will never pick up the smell of other foods. Keep it separate from the spoons you use for other things.
Why not metal?
Reactive metals can add a metallic taste to delicate caviar, which is why non-metal spoons are the tradition. See the essential guide to caviar spoons and how to serve caviar.
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