We buy jewelry because we love the way it looks and how it makes us feel—exhilarated, sexy, joyful. . . . Enjoying and wearing our jewels often is paramount; however we should know exactly what we are purchasing.
I'm often asked by customers if their strand of pearls are real? Are they valuable? Are they worth restringing? If you are not a gemologist, nor in the jewelry industry, it can be difficult to figure out if pearls are real or synthetic.
The best case scenario is a knowledgeable sales associate, who is able to clearly describe the jewelry; but just to be sure, your receipt should indicate the metal quality, type of stone or pearl, length/size, etc.
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The worst case scenario and biggest fear is, of course, being scammed or buying from someone who's uniformed and misleading about their products.
PEARL FACTS: Is it Real or Fake?
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⁃ Tooth Test— Gently rub a pearl against your front tooth. Do Not Bite it! Real pearls have a gritty feel. Plastic or glass will glide smoothly.
⁃ Luster— Real pearls will have luster and be reflective. Fake pearls tend to be flat.
⁃ Variation— in size, color, shape. Real pearls, even gem quality pearls, will be slightly different from one another.Fake pearls will be identical in shape, color and size.
⁃ Touch— Real pearls feel cool to the touch. Fake pearls - room temperature
⁃ Heft— Real pearls have some heft; plastic pearls do not.
Most pearls, on the market today, are cultured or farmed by man.
Varieties: Akoya (saltwater), Freshwater, South Sea, Tahitian, Mabe, Coin, and Keshi.
Colors: white, cream, silver, pink, peach, grey, golden, black, pistachio, etc. The color can be natural or dyed. This information should be disclosed to you when you purchase the pearl; but don't worry color treatment doesn't harm the pearl.
Sizes: as small as 2mm and as large as 20+mm.
Shapes: round, baroque, potato, oval, barrel, tear drop, and button.
Value: is determined by a combination of these factors. Unlike diamonds, there is no standard universal grading system; therefore, you must consult an expert when determining value.
JEWELRY CARE: You'll find everything you need to know about Caring for your Jewelry at http://www.fayekimdesigns.com/store/jewelry-care/info_11.html
I'm always happy to answer any questions or offer advice on any jewelry related topics, so please ask away in the “comments” section!
