bg-slider
overlay

How to Tell If a Pearl Necklace Is Real

How to Tell If a Pearl Necklace

Pearls are timeless and elegant, but with so many imitations flooding the market, distinguishing real pearls from fakes can be challenging. 
Here are some reliable methods to help you determine the authenticity of a pearl necklace:

Visual Inspection

  • Shape Observation

    Genuine pearls come in various sizes and shapes, each with its unique characteristics. Real pearls are rarely perfectly round and often have a slightly irregular shape with a rough surface. In contrast, fake pearls are uniformly round and have a very smooth surface.

  • Luster Examination

    Real pearls emit a natural inner glow that is vibrant and changes with the light. They have a luster that feels genuine and alive. On the other hand, fake pearls may appear plastic-like with a surface gloss that seems artificial or dull.

  • Pearl Drill Hole

    Check the drill hole of the pearls. If you notice paint chipping around the hole, it's likely a plastic pearl. Real pearls have layered nacre around the hole, which is a characteristic feature.
20240901213454
20240901213501

Tactile Examination

  • Touch Sensation

    When you touch a real pearl, it feels cool to the touch and warms up when worn against your skin. Fake pearls feel room temperature and can be slick to the touch.

  • Weight Comparison

    Natural pearls have a distinct weight to them. Plastic imitation pearls feel lightweight, while glass pearls tend to be heavier.

  • Tooth Test

    Gently rub the pearl against your teeth. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty due to its crystalline structure, while fake plastic or glass pearls will feel smooth.
320
58221260e5c4bc919ea8e477b86cbe0f

Physical or Chemical Testing

  • Scratch Test

    Use a small knife to scratch the pearl's surface. Real pearls can be scraped and produce fine powder without peeling.

  • Fire Test

    Caution: Only attempt this with proper safety precautions. When subjected to fire, real pearls have no odor and do not change color. Fake pearls will turn black and may even experience surface peeling, emitting an unpleasant odor. When wiped with a hand, the black color does not fade.
20240903001025
Despite these methods, modern technology has made it easier to create convincing fake pearls. Non-experts may still find it challenging to determine authenticity through visual or tactile methods alone. Physical and chemical tests, while more reliable, can potentially damage the pearls and their settings.

Therefore, when purchasing pearl jewelry, it's advisable to buy from reputable brands or stores known for their quality and authenticity.
At Pearlassy, we exclusively use natural freshwater pearls and genuine gemstones in our jewelry, ensuring our brand maintains its natural allure and authenticity.