How To Test Pearls

By Author: Samantha Dale
Total Articles: 610
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Some people think that a pearl that is grown or cultivated means the pearl is not real. A cultured pearl is one that is grown from a pearl farm but it is still a real pearl. An imitation pearl is often something covered with a substance to give it the look of a pearl. Next, colour is applied to the pearl-like gem. These colours are often artificial in nature and are chosen because they look very pretty and can attract people to the imitation gem. The Majorca Pearl is a very well known imitation pearl that is really just a glass bead that has been covered with pearl essence and then finished.

Imitation pearls when created right can be difficult to tell. One method that can be used is known as the 'tooth test.' It is important to remember that this test is a simple one and not always one hundred percent reliable. What you do is take the pearl and rub it against your tooth. If you believe that it feels like sandpaper, you probably have a real pearl on your hands. It might seem like a contradiction in terms but even though you should feel a rough feeling like sandpaper, the real pearl will have a smooth finish. You can use ...
... this as a quick way to test any pearl you might be considering.

The best way to be sure is to take your pearl to a professional such as a jeweller who can perform more extensive test to determine its state.

House of pearl guide to pearls and gems.House of Pearl is the online resource for gem and precious stones.View the House of Pearl Fashion Limited company profile on LinkedIn. See recent hires and promotions, competitors and how you are connected to House of Pearl Fashion Limited. http://www.linkedin.com/companies/house-of-pearl-fashion-limited