Testing Pearls for Authenticity



Posted: Monday, May 09, 2005

by
Pearls Of Joy Jewelry

Sometimes customers interested in buying pearls are concerned that they won't know the real thing from the imitation. Here are some tests to help you determine if you are looking at well-done "fakes" are genuine pearls.

The tooth test

The tried-and-true method of determining if a pearl is real is to rub it against your teeth. Real pearls will feel slightly gritty and rough because of the layers of nacre than have formed over time.

An imitation pearl will feel smooth and glass like. That's because the imitations are made by dipping a plastic or glass bead into some sort of paint, sometimes including iridescent fish scales.

If you are looking at a strand of pearls at an antique store or estate sale, look carefully at the drill holes. The coating over imitation pearls will fade, chip or even discolor over time. You can easily see chips or flakes around drill holes.

Warm versus cool

An old wives' tale says that if you hold real pearls in your hand, they'll be cool to the touch for several seconds before warming up. This is not a sure-fire method to check for authenticity.

The best way to guarantee you buy real pearl jewelry is to always deal with a reputable pearl dealer.

PearlsOfJoy.com is a leading online retailer of cultured Tahitian, Freshwater, South Sea & Akoya Pearls.

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Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)
» left by kim mcleod
from Australia 6 years 245 days ago.
great information. Can you tell me if Mikimoto jewellery has an authenticity stamp on the piece or not?
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