COMBINE pears, lime zest and juice, sugar and gingerroot in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve sugar. Boil, stirring frequently until mixture thickens, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and test gel. If preserves break from spoon in a sheet or flake, it is at the gel stage. Skim off foam. If your mixture has not reached the gel stage, return the pan to medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 5 minutes. Repeat gel stage test and cooking as needed.

LADLE hot preserves into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Allow to cool before refrigerating.