When you’re looking to buy a piece of jewelry, it’s important that you know what you’re getting. One of the most popular types of jewelry is pearls, but not all pearls are created equal.
In this article, we will teach you how to tell if pearls are real or fake. We will cover everything from the different types of pearls to how to inspect them for authenticity. By following these simple steps, you can be sure that you’re getting the real thing!
What are Real Pearls?
Real pearls are made by a living creature, usually a type of oyster or mussel. The pearl is formed when an irritant, such as a piece of sand, gets into the shell of the creature.
In response to this irritant, the creature produces a substance called nacre. Nacre is composed of tiny crystals of calcium carbonate. It is this substance that gives pearls their characteristic lustrous sheen.
Pearls are extremely rare in the wild, so “natural” pearls are quite prized. Freshwater mussels also produce pearls. They can produce multiple pearls at once, so they are a more common source of pearls used in jewelry.
What are Fake Pearls?
Fake pearls are usually made from glass or plastic. They may also be made from the shells of other creatures, such as clams. These fake pearls are often referred to as “imitation” pearls. Fake pearls are much less valuable than real ones. They’re not as durable as real pearls, and typically not as attractive either.
How to Tell If Pearls are Real?
There are a few ways you can tell if pearls are real. The easiest way is to look at the lustre. Real pearls will have a soft, buttery, or iridescent lustre. Fake pearls will have a duller shine, or may even look plastic-y.
Another way to tell if pearls are real is to look at the surface. Real pearls will have small imperfections on the surface, called “blemishes”. Fake pearls will often be completely smooth.
You can also try rubbing the pearl against your tooth. Real pearls will feel gritty, while fake pearls will feel smooth.
Of course, the best way to tell if pearls are real is to take them to a jeweler. A professional will be able to quickly tell you whether or not your pearls are real.
The Different Types of Pearls
Now that you know how to tell if pearls are real, you might be wondering what kinds of pearls are out there. Here’s a quick overview:
Akoya Pearls: These classic white pearls are grown in saltwater oysters in Japan and China. They range in size from about two millimeters to ten millimeters.
Tahitian Pearls: Grown in saltwater oysters in French Polynesia, Tahitian pearls are larger than Akoya pearls and can range in color from black to greenish-black.
South Sea Pearls: The largest type of pearl, South Sea pearls are grown in saltwater oysters in Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They can range in size from nine millimeters to twenty millimeters.
Freshwater Pearls: Grown in freshwater mussels, freshwater pearls come in a wide range of colors, including white, black, pink, blue, lavender, and peach. They range in size from two millimeters to twelve millimeters.
How to Care for Your Pearls?
Pearls are beautiful and delicate pieces of jewelry. It is important to know how to care for them properly so they stay in good condition. Follow these tips to keep your pearls looking lustrous for years to come:
- Store your pearls in a cool, dry place.
- Wipe them down after each wear with a soft, dry cloth.
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals, such as cosmetics, perfume, and cleaning products.
- Restring your pearls every few years to prevent them from stretching or breaking.
If you follow these simple care instructions, your pearls will stay in good condition for many years to come!
Where to Buy Pearls?
If you’re in the market for a new piece of jewelry, pearls may be on your radar. But where should you go to buy them? There are a few different options, but here’s a look at some of the best places to find pearls.
Local Jewelry Stores: You can find pearls at most local jewelry stores. However, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable jeweler, and look for pearls that are certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Online Retailers: There are a number of online retailers that sell pearls. However, it’s important to be wary of scams. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable source, and look for pearls that are certified by the GIA.
Boutiques: There are some great pearl boutiques out there. Do your research to find one in your area, and look for pearls that are certified by the GIA.
The best way to ensure you’re getting a quality pearl is to buy from a reputable source and look for pearls that are certified by the GIA. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re getting a real pearl.
The History of Pearls
While pearls may seem like a modern phenomenon, they’ve actually been around for centuries. In fact, some of the earliest references to pearls come from the Bible. They were considered a symbol of wealth and status and were often given as gifts to royalty.
Over time, their popularity has ebbed and flowed, but they’ve never really disappeared from the public consciousness. Today, they remain one of the most coveted gems in the world. So what makes them so special? Let’s take a closer look at the history of pearls.
The earliest known pearls were found in the Middle East and date back to around 3000 BCE. These natural pearls were extremely rare and hard to come by, which made them all the more valuable. In ancient Rome, only the wealthiest citizens could afford to wear them. Pearls also played an important role in Chinese culture, where they were seen as a symbol of wealth and power.
It wasn’t until the late 19th century that cultured pearls were first introduced. These are pearls that have been cultivated in oysters, rather than being found in the wild. This process made them much more affordable and accessible to the masses. As a result, they quickly became one of the most popular gemstones in the world.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to tell if pearls are real, you can go out and purchase your own pearl necklace or earrings with confidence. Remember to ask the jeweler lots of questions about where the pearls came from and how they were processed.
If you’re buying online, be sure to research the seller carefully to make sure you’re getting a quality product. With a little bit of knowledge and careful shopping, you can add some beautiful pearls to your jewelry collection!
