The “Tooth Test”

One of the most popular methods to check if a pearl is real is the “tooth test.” This method is widely used and easy to do.

To perform the test, gently rub the pearl against the edge of your teeth. If the pearl feels gritty or slightly rough, then it is most likely real. If it feels smooth, then it might be a fake pearl.

It is important to note that some sellers may artificially grit the surface of fake pearls to mimic the natural texture of real pearls. Larger, spherical pearls usually have a smoother surface and may not give reliable results.

Look for Imperfections

Real pearls have imperfections that distinguish them from fake ones. These imperfections are often referred to as “flaws” or “blemishes” and can be seen on the surface of the pearl.

To check for imperfections, examine the surface of the pearl under good lighting. Real pearls have small bumps, pits, or irregularities, while fake pearls will have a uniformly smooth surface.

It is worth noting that some high-end pearls are considered to be “clean,” meaning they have few to no visible imperfections. However, these pearls are often accompanied by a certificate of authenticity or are sold by a reputable seller with a guarantee of authenticity.

The “Glow Test”

Real pearls have a soft, glowing luster that imitations cannot match. This test requires a dimly lit room or a dark background to be effective.

To perform the glow test, place the pearl on a dark surface and shine a flashlight or lamp at an angle on it. Real pearls will emit an iridescent glow, while fake pearls will not.

It is important to note that this test is not always reliable since some fake pearls can also emulate the gentle glow of real pearls. Factors such as lighting, surface texture, and pearl type can also affect the result.

Size and Shape

Real pearls typically have an uneven size and shape due to the natural formation process. In comparison, fake pearls are often machine-made and have a more uniform appearance.

To check for uniformity, examine the pearls visually. Real pearls are not consistent in size, shape, or color. If the pearls seem to be identical in their physical structure, they might be fake.

It’s also worth mentioning that the final shape and size of pearls depend on various factors like the type of mollusk or the environment in which they were grown. In some cases, pearls can have a uniform shape but could still be real.

Knot Examination

Real pearls are traditionally knotted individually or with silk thread. Knotting is essential because it prevents the pearls from rubbing against each other and damaging the pearl’s surface.

To perform the knot examination, check for small knots between each pearl. Real pearls will have individually knotted pearls or small knots between each pearl. However, this test is not always definitive since some fake pearls are also knotted to look more authentic.

Loupe Observation

Examining the drill hole of the pearl with a magnifying glass or a loupe is also a reliable way to determine if the pearls are real or not.

Real pearls will have a smoother, sharper drill hole, while imitations will have a rougher or jagged drill hole. Additionally, real pearls will have a visible organic-luster that is absent in fake pearls.

It’s essential to remember that this test requires a specialized tool and may not be practical for everyday use.

Conclusion

Knowing how to tell if pearls are real is essential to avoid buying fake or imitation pearls. By using multiple tests, you can reliably determine if the pearl is genuine or not. The “tooth test,” the “glow test,” examining for imperfections, size, knotting, and inspecting the drill hole with a loupe are some of the tests you can use. We recommend purchasing pearls from reputable sellers or jewelers with a certification of authenticity if you want to be absolutely sure.

Always conduct several tests and consider purchasing pearls from a reputable seller to ensure that you get an authentic product that is satisfactory and valuable.