[knotty panda]

I had to read this thread through a few times. I wanted to be sure all y'all weren't trying to pull a "let's see if the Panda falls for it!" trick on me. One question, pearls sink like a rock, so how can I surround the pearl with water? Remember, all I ever need to do is remove all that gunk from the inside of the end pearls on a strand so I can restring it.

[The Pearl Outlet]

It's been many months since this thread was started, so I thought I'd share further insight. Yes, the Microwave in boiling water is still a good method. We've refined it further over the last year. The trick is simply the boiling hot water.

Just boil water, put the pearls that need ungluing in a SAFE container which can handle boiling hot water, and pour the water in and let them sit in it. Repeat as necessary. Some types of epoxy come apart very easily with this method, and it is very gentle on the pearls. Other epoxies can be more stubborn.

[xeresana]

I just dropped some pearls off at one of the best jewelery stores in town, asking that the pearls be removed from their setting (stud earrings). The clerk said it was no problem, they'd be ready tomorrow because the jeweler has to soak them. Is this safe? Is he likely using the solvents you have mentioned? Does this not have any effect on the pearl? I'm a little worried.

[The Pearl Outlet]

In general, solvents made for this purpose are considered "safe".