What is how to tell if pearls are real?

Here's information on how to tell if pearls are real:

  • The Tooth Test: Gently rub the pearl across your front teeth. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty due to the imperfections in its layers of nacre. A fake pearl, usually made of glass or plastic, will feel smooth. (Tooth%20Test)

  • Visual Inspection:

    • Shape and Size: Real pearls are rarely perfectly round or uniform in size. Look for slight imperfections. Perfectly uniform pearls are more likely to be fake.
    • Luster: Luster refers to the way light reflects off the pearl's surface. Real pearls have a deep, radiant luster, giving them a glow from within. Fake pearls often have a dull or artificial-looking shine. (Luster)
    • Surface: Examine the surface closely. Real pearls often have minor surface blemishes, tiny ridges, or other subtle imperfections. Fake pearls tend to have a flawless, overly smooth surface.
  • Weight and Temperature: Real pearls tend to feel cooler to the touch than fake pearls (especially plastic ones) and have a bit more weight. (Weight%20and%20Temperature)

  • The Drill Hole: Examine the drill hole (if the pearl is strung). Real pearls often have drill holes with sharp, well-defined edges. Fake pearls may have drill holes with frayed or chipped edges, revealing the inner material.

  • The "Nacre" Test: This is a destructive test, so only do it if you're willing to potentially damage the pearl. Try to gently chip a tiny piece from an inconspicuous area. Real pearls have layers of nacre. Fake pearls may have a coating that chips off easily, revealing a different material underneath. (Nacre)

  • Price: Real pearls, especially natural ones, are generally more expensive than fake pearls. Be wary of pearls that are priced significantly lower than what you would expect for genuine pearls of similar size and quality. (Price)

  • Professional Appraisal: The most reliable way to determine if pearls are real is to have them appraised by a qualified gemologist or jeweler. They have the tools and expertise to accurately assess the pearls' authenticity and value. (Professional%20Appraisal)