How to Tell if Pearls Are Real: A Practical Guide
Pearls are timeless treasures and are often seen as symbols of elegance, beauty and sophistication. But with so many imitations on the market today, it can be hard to distinguish between genuine pearls and fake ones. Whether you are buying pearl jewelry for yourself or someone special, it is important to know what you are getting. So, Na Hoku is here to help with a guide to tell if pearls are real. Let us dive into the key indicators that make it easy to spot the real from the fake.
Look Closely: Surface and Shape
Genuine pearls are organic gems, which means they rarely appear perfectly uniform. Real pearls often have slight imperfections like small ridges, dimples or differences in shape and size. These imperfections add to the character and help make it easy to spot a real pearl in the wild. In contrast, imitation pearls tend to look too perfect. If every pearl in a strand is the exact same size, color and luster, it could be a good indicator that they are fake.
While you are examining the pearls, hold one up to the light and rotate it gently. Real pearls reflect light in a soft, layered glow called "orient," while fakes often appear flat or overly shiny. While this method is not foolproof, with enough practice it helps you to weed out some of the fakes.
The "Tooth Test"
One of the simplest at-home methods to determine pearl authenticity is the “tooth test.” This should be performed very carefully and if you are unsure, it is best to avoid it altogether. Gently rub the pearl against the edge of your front teeth without applying too much pressure. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty or sandy due to its natural layers of nacre. Fake pearls, especially plastic ones, will feel smooth or glassy. While you should not do this test in a store, it is a quick way to check pearls that you already own.
Temperature and Weight
Real pearls tend to feel cool to the touch when you first pick them up, no matter how warm the room is. In your hand, they warm quickly. Fake pearls made from plastic or resin usually feel room temperature right away.
Weight is another helpful clue. Real pearls are generally heavier than their man-made counterparts. A strand of real pearls will feel noticeably weighty and solid, while fakes often feel light and hollow. Imitations are becoming more and more sophisticated every day and while some can mimic the weight of real pearls, many still fail the weight comparison test.
Drill Holes and Stringing
Check the holes where pearls are drilled. In real pearls, holes are usually small, clean and precise. Fake pearls often have chipped paint or coating around the drill holes, which can flake or peel over time and are a dead giveaway that you are not dealing with the real thing. Also, higher-quality pearl strands are usually individually knotted on silk or nylon cord to protect them from rubbing against each other. Bead strands may be strung without knots, which increases wear and tear.
Ask the Experts
Still unsure? The most reliable way to confirm authenticity is by having your pearls evaluated by a trusted jeweler, especially if you are considering a significant purchase. At Na Hoku, our pearl experts are trained to assess the quality and origin of every piece, ensuring you get only the finest. When you shop for pearl jewelry at Na Hoku, you can shop with confidence knowing you are getting the real deal.
Whether you are shopping for cultured Akoya, South Sea or Tahitian pearls, knowing what to look for helps you make a confident, informed choice and ensures your pearl jewelry stands the test of time.