How to Tell If a Pearl Necklace Is Real

A pearl necklace is a piece of jewelry that adds elegance to any outfit. However, not all pearls are genuine. Many imitations look stunning yet lack the depth and glow of real pearls. 

Knowing how to tell if a pearl necklace is real through pearl necklace testing helps you protect your investment and choose quality jewelry with confidence.

Why Identifying Real Pearls Matters

Real pearls are natural gems that have unique luster, texture, and value that fake pearls can’t match. With so many replicas in the market, it’s important to know the difference before you buy or appraise a pearl necklace.

fresh water pearl connector necklace

1. The Tooth Test: Simple but Reliable

In pearl necklace testing, the tooth test is one of the oldest and easiest ways.

• Gently rub a pearl from the necklace against the edge of your front teeth.
  

• A real pearl feels slightly gritty or sandy.
  

• A fake pearl feels smooth and glass-like.
  

The gritty texture comes from tiny ridges on a real pearl’s nacre. Imitation pearls, made of plastic or glass, lack this natural coating.

2. Check the Luster and Glow

Luster is a key feature that separates real pearls from fake ones.

• Real pearls show a deep, multi-layered shine that seems to come from within.
  

• Imitation pearls have a flat, uniform sheen that looks painted on.
  

Move the pearl necklace under different lights. A real pearl’s surface reflects light softly and reveals subtle color shifts, while a fake one appears dull and opaque.

3. Inspect the Shape and Size

No two real pearls are perfectly alike. If you’re wondering how to tell if pearls are real, know that size and shape matter. 

• Real pearls often have slight variations in shape and size.
  

• Fake pearls are usually identical, as they are machine-made.
  

Perfectly round pearls do exist, but they are rare and expensive. A necklace with uniform, flawless spheres at a low price is usually imitation.

4. Examine the Surface Closely

Look carefully at the pearl’s surface under good light.

• Real pearls have minor blemishes, ridges, or irregularities.
  

• Fake pearls look too smooth and perfect.
  

Use a magnifying glass if needed. The small imperfections on real pearls prove their natural origin.

5. Observe the Drill Holes

The holes drilled for stringing reveal a lot about authenticity.

• On real pearls, holes are clean, round, and sharp-edged.
  

• On fake pearls, you may notice flaking paint or rough edges.
  

If the coating around the hole is chipped or peeling, it’s likely an imitation.

6. Feel the Temperature

Real pearls feel cool when first touched and slowly warm up against your skin.
Fake pearls, especially plastic ones, match room temperature instantly.

Try placing your necklace on your wrist. The coolness of genuine pearls is a clear sign of authenticity.

7. Test the Weight

Weight can also reveal the truth.

• Real pearls are heavier because of their dense nacre layers.
  

• Fake pearls are lightweight and often made from glass or resin.
  

Hold the necklace in your palm. If it feels surprisingly light, it’s likely not real.

8. Examine the Reflection Quality

Real pearls show soft reflections with depth and contrast. When you look closely, you might even see your reflection, but slightly blurred.

Fake pearls, however, reflect light sharply or unevenly, lacking that inner glow.

9. Rub Two Pearls Together

This is another simple test.

• When you rub two real pearls, they produce a fine, powdery residue and feel rough.
  

• Fake pearls slide smoothly without resistance.
  

The powder from real pearls comes from genuine nacre layers rubbing off slightly.

Common Types of Fake Pearls

Understanding common imitation types helps you recognize them faster.

• Glass Pearls: Made from glass beads coated and have a pearlescent finish. Naturally heavier but perfectly uniform in color.
  

• Plastic Pearls: Very light, often found in fashion jewelry. The surface wears off over time.
  

• Shell Pearls: Created by coating shell material with synthetic nacre. They look real but lack depth.
  

• Majorica Pearls: High-quality man-made pearls from Spain, beautiful but not natural.
  

Each type mimics real pearls well, but none replicate the true qualities of an original pearl necklace. 

Bonus Tip: Price Often Reveals the Truth

A genuine pearl necklace, even a simple freshwater strand, costs at least $40 to $200.
High-quality Akoya, Tahitian, or South Sea pearl necklaces start around $500 and can exceed $20,000

baroque pearl stick necklace

How Real Pearls Differ from Fakes: Quick Comparison

Different Pearl Types and Their Traits

Understanding types also helps you identify authenticity.

• Akoya Pearls: Known for high luster and classic white hue.
  

• Freshwater Pearls: Softer glow, varied shapes, more affordable.
  

• Tahitian Pearls: Naturally dark tones like gray, black, or peacock.
  

• South Sea Pearls: Large, golden or white, and extremely rare.
  

• Baby (Seed) Pearls: Tiny 1-3 mm pearls, often freshwater, used in minimalist jewelry like the Bubs & Sass Baby Pearl Necklace.
  

Each has distinct qualities that real pearls consistently display, including luster, texture, and tone variation.

Both freshwater and saltwater pearls can include baroque pearls, the type that comes in irregular shapes. 

Caring for Your Real Pearl Necklace

To maintain your pearls’ natural glow and durability:

• Keep them away from perfumes and hair sprays.
  

• Wipe them gently after each wear.
  

• Store them flat in a soft cloth pouch.
  

• Restring them every two years for safety.
  

Real pearls last a lifetime when handled with care, unlike imitations that fade or peel

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to tell if a pearl necklace is real helps you buy with confidence and avoid costly mistakes. Real pearls have unique warmth, texture, and depth that no replica can fully copy. Bubs & sass is a brand that uses only genuine freshwater pearls in pearl jewelry, including pearl necklaces. 

Whether it’s a vintage Akoya strand, a rare South Sea piece, or a baby pearl necklace, genuine pearls always show timeless beauty and lasting value. Look closely, test carefully, and your pearls will reveal their truth every time.