How to tell if a Pearl is real

by Sehdev Jewellers Gemologist, Gemstone Dealers

If there is a variety of gemstones that never go out of fashion, then pearls are surely their on the list. They are classic, graceful and always in vogue. As they add sophistication to any attire – western or ethnic – they can be easily found in almost every gemstone jewelry aficionado's collection. It’s their simplicity that has won many hearts over the years and continue to do so.

You may already have thought of the type of pearl jewelry that you wish to buy. Be it a necklace or a set of earrings, make sure you choose the right pearls that are natural and of high quality. This is because finding natural pearl gemstone isn’t that easy in this day and age as many suppliers sell fake pearls and fool innocent customers who can’t really distinguish between fake and genuine pearls. To help such customers, there are a few easy ways that can make them understand if the pearls are real or not.

By being a little careful and shopping smartly, you will be able to pick the best quality of pearls that are available in the market based on the quality, color, and style of the pearls that you desire to purchase.

Let’s take a look at some of these simple methods.

Check them carefully

There is no denying that natural pearls are completely unique and no two pearls can be exactly similar. This is the reason why taking a closer look at the pearls that you are planning to buy can help you identify their originality. While real pearls have some imperfections, fake pearls are almost flawless.

Also, fake pearls are more or less of the same shape and size as they are produced in large batches. But, natural pearls are not same in shapes and sizes. Another amazing way to understand if pearls are fake or real is to check them under the light. Real pearls will reflect light and give a subtle glow. In contrast, fake pearls don’t really reflect light.

Take the Tooth Test

All that needs to be done in this method is to rub the pearl against the front tooth and observe how it feels. If it is a real pearl, then it will have a gritty texture. A fake pearl will feel smooth, and they won't be any gritty feeling.

Look for the price

It goes without saying that the price of a gemstone depends on its quality, size, shape and a lot of other factors. And pearls are no exception. If you are planning to buy pearls online and they seem extremely cheap, then they may be fake pearls. This is because of high quality, genuine pearls come at a good price and aren’t really inexpensive.

Feel the weight

A simple way to check if pearls are real or not is to feel their weight. The weight of real pearls can be felt when they are held in hands. However, fake pearls are mostly light to feel, more so if they are made up of plastic.

Rub the pearls

Rubbing two pearls against each other is another way to check if they are genuine or not. As natural pearl stones have imperfections, rubbing them together will create a gritty feeling. However, when it comes to fake pearls, rubbing them together will not create any friction and, hence, there will be no gritty feeling, only a smooth feeling.

In fact, if rubbing two pearls together generates a powdered nacre, then you can be sure that they are genuine. While, if they don’t generate a powder and shed a bit of paint when rubbed together, then they could very well be fake pearls.

Check the temperature of the pearls

Another way to check the authenticity of the pearls is to check the temperature of the pearls. Genuine pearls usually feel cold irrespective of the room temperature. But, once you wear them, they will feel warm, and their temperature will go up to your body’s temperature. On the other hand, fake pearls usually feel warm, especially if they are made up of plastic.

Look at the Drill Hole

Pearls that are used in jewelry usually have a drill hole in them. You can check the drill hole with a magnifying glass to know if the pearl is real or not. A real pearl will have smooth and sharp hole edges; whereas, a fake pearl will have bumpy edges.

Consult a professional

There could be times when conducting these simple tests may not be possible. Also, there is a possibility that performing these tests may not provide the right results. In such a case, you can consult a professional to determine if your chosen pearls are real or fake.

For doing this, find a reliable and experienced supplier of gemstones or a jeweler of good repute. When you go to a trustworthy source for the appraisal of your pearls, you can get the peace of mind that your chosen professional will provide accurate and honest information about the authenticity of your pearls.

So, what is it that you need more? Just follow the instructions mentioned above and check if your pearls are real or fake. Be a smart gemstone shopper and don’t fall prey to sham sellers who try to sell fake pearls by ripping off customers.

Also, make sure to get a certificate of authenticity from the seller of pearls to confirm that they are genuine.