Pearls are the epitome of timeless elegance. From colorful pearl necklaces to classic freshwater pearl drop earrings, these precious gems add a sophisticated touch to any look.
However, with the rise of imitation pearls, it can be hard to know whether you're wearing the real deal or just a convincing replica. Whether you've inherited a set of pearls or bought a new piece, it’s always good to know what you're working with.
While imitation pearls can look strikingly similar to real ones, there are several reliable methods to help you tell them apart. Below, two jewelry experts share their top tips to determine if your pearls are genuine.
Meet The Experts
Stephanie Lawler: Vice President of Merchandising at Signet Jewelers
Mallory Whitten: Owner of MRW Jewels and former Jewelry Manager at M.S. Rau in New Orleans, Louisiana
6 Ways to Tell If Pearls Are Real
1. The Tooth Test
One of the easiest ways to identify real pearls is by using your teeth. Gently rub a pearl against the edge of your teeth. If the surface feels gritty or slightly textured, it’s likely real. According to Mallory Whitten, "If it feels smooth, it's most likely an imitation."
2. Observe Their Shape
Take a closer look at the pearls' shape. Real pearls are rarely perfectly round due to the natural formation process. As Stephanie Lawler explains, "Real pearls have slight irregularities and ridges that make them unique."
3. Feel Their Weight
Pay attention to the weight of the pearls. Real pearls tend to be heavier than synthetic ones, especially if the imitation pearls are made from plastic.
4. Knock Them Together
When two real pearls are knocked together, they produce a soft, dull sound. Synthetic pearls, however, will emit a hollow sound, according to Stephanie Lawler.
5. Check Their Temperature
Real pearls tend to feel cool to the touch and will gradually warm up as they come into contact with your skin. In contrast, synthetic pearls usually stay at one temperature and don’t adjust like natural pearls do.
6. Rub Them Together
Rubbing two real pearls together creates a slight gritty sensation, while synthetic pearls will feel smooth. Real pearls can also leave behind a fine powder when rubbed together, which is another sign of authenticity.
Real vs. Fake Pearls: What’s the Difference?
Real pearls are natural gemstones formed inside mollusks like oysters and mussels. They are the result of a mollusk’s natural process of forming a protective layer around foreign particles.
On the other hand, synthetic pearls are man-made and often produced from materials like glass, plastic, or shells, with an iridescent coating applied to mimic the lustrous look of real pearls. Synthetic pearls are typically smooth and plastic-like, without the natural imperfections found in real pearls.
Fake pearls can also be made from materials like glass, plastic, or even carved, but the most common imitation is made from plastic, which mimics the pearl's shine.
Final Tip
If you’re still unsure about your pearls, don’t hesitate to visit a trusted jeweler. A professional can give you a definitive answer, ensuring that you're wearing genuine pearls or offering advice on how to care for your jewelry.
