How to Tell If a Pearl Is Real

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Don't be fooled at — find out if you're looking at the genuine article.

Step 1: Use your teeth
Scrape the pearl across your front teeth. Real pearls typically feel gritty or slightly rough, while fakes will likely feel smooth.

Step 2: Test for friction
Rub one pearl against another lightly. If you feel a sandy friction, then they are probably real.

Step 3: Magnify them
Using a magnifying glass or a jeweler's loupe, examine the pearl’s surface. Real pearls look scaly; imitations look grainy.

Step 4: Check for flaws
Check for flaws in the surface and shape of the pearl. Real pearls usually have imperfections.

Tip
Look at a strand of pearls carefully. If the pearls seem uniform in size, color, or shape, it is likely the pearls are not real.

Step 5: Perform a sunlight test
Take the pearls into the sunlight or hold them under bright lights. Real pearls will reveal a colorful luster that shifts as they move.

Step 6: X-ray the pearl
Have the pearls x-rayed by a jewelry expert. This may cost you, but knowing for sure may be worth it.

Did You Know?
Did you know? It may take as long as six years before a cultured pearl is ready to harvest.