Testing the genuineness of a pearl is important to not only avoid wasting money on a fake but also to understand the value of the gem. This article will help you understand how to test the genuineness of a pearl.
I. Appearance
A genuine pearl's appearance is one of its significant indicators. You can look for the following to determine a pearl's authenticity.
A, Lustre
The first thing to look for is the lustre of the pearl. A genuine pearl will have a sharp, shiny, and bright lustre. It should reflect light in the way that appears to be coming from the deep layers of the pearl.
B. Shape
Pearls can come in different shapes. However, the most valuable ones are perfectly round or nearly round in shape. Other shapes such as drop, button, or oval are also valuable, but their worth is a little lesser than perfectly round ones. Even if top-quality pearls are used in a piece of jewellery, those are almost perfectly similar in shape & size, please note that Real pearls will still have very minute deviations in shape and size if seen through a magnifying glass, imitation pearls will be completely uniform in shape & size.
II. Weight
The weight of the pearl is another important factor to consider when testing its genuineness. Genuine pearls are heavier as they are solid nacre that makes up the entirety of the pearl. Imitation pearls, on the other hand, will feel much lighter as they are typically made with plastic or glass
III. Texture
Another critical factor to consider is the texture of the pearl. Real pearls have a crystalline texture, and they're cool to the touch. Imitation pearls, however, will often feel more like plastic.
IV. Certifications
Some pearls come with certifications that confirm their genuineness. These certificates can come from various sources, including the gem laboratory & Pearl vendors themselves.
V. How to Test at Home
Just peel off the upper layer of real pearls, and a powdery substance would fall off, and the interior would be similar in lustre and look to the outer surface how much you keep peeling off a real pearl, however, imitation pearls will not leave any powdery substance on peeling off and will also show off a black/grey/dull surface from inside when the upper plastic layer is peeled off. Genuine pearls will leave a powdery residue behind because they're made up of nacre, while imitation ones will not.
Another method is to rub two pearls together, producing a light friction sound. Genuine pearls produce a whooshing sound, while imitation ones often sound dull.
VI. Professional Testing Methods
If you're still unsure about a pearl's genuineness, you should consider seeking professional assistance. You can take your pearls to a gemologist or a jewellery appraiser. They will have the necessary equipment and experience to test the pearls' authenticity accurately.
VII. How to avoid purchasing fake pearls
The best way to avoid purchasing fake pearls is by purchasing from reputable sellers & vendors that provide certification for their pearls. You should avoid buying pearls from street vendors who have little to no verification of their merchandise's genuineness.
VIII. Conclusion
In conclusion, testing the genuineness of a pearl is important to not only avoid purchasing imitations but also to assess their value. When conducting a test, make sure to examine the pearl's lustre, surface, shape, weight, and texture. If you're still uncertain, seek professional assistance. By following these guidelines, you can confidently distinguish between authentic pearls and fake ones.
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IX. FAQs
Are natural and cultured pearls the same?
Natural pearls are formed without any human intervention, while cultured pearls are also real pearls grown in a shellfish or mollusk which are formed with the help of human intervention. Instead of waiting for an irritant, like a piece of sand or small rock, to enter the shell or mollusk as in natural pearls, cultured pearls are formed by inserting an irritant inside an oyster to stimulate the growth process.
What are imitation pearls made of?
Imitation pearls are typically made of plastic or glass.
Are pearl certification reports necessary?
No. However, having documentation of a pearl's genuineness can help you prove it is authentic and increase its resale value.
Are freshwater pearls genuine?
Yes. Freshwater pearls are genuine pearls, and they are cultivated in freshwater mollusks.
Can genuine pearls be scratched easily?
Pearls are soft and can be scratched easily. Thus, pearls should be stored separately in a soft pouch and must be carefully handled.