How to Test if Pearls are Real
It is relatively easy to tell real pearls from fake. Many different testing types are available, some easier and less expensive than others. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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The Tooth Test: Though this is not always reliable, you can rub the side of a pearl with your tooth. The surface of a real pearl feels rough and a faux pearl feels smooth.
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The Sun Test: A more reliable test, this one requires taking your pearls into the sun. A real pearl shows variations in color and reflective quality, whereas a fake one is more uniform in color.
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The Magnification Test: Look at your pearls under a microscope or strong magnifying glass. Irregularities should be present in the surface of the pearl if they are real.
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The X-ray Test: The most advanced option is to have a certified gemologist examine your pearls. As in the previous two tests,an x-ray will show variations in density, and simulated pearls show uniformity.
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Wear them. Fake pearls will show wear over time. Real pearls will not. This means they lose their shine and slightly change shape (if you wear them a lot), though this will be a discrete change.
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- Photo Credit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:PerlmuttAusst.jpg
