How to Tell the Difference Between Real Pearls and Fake Fast

If you've just inherited a vintage necklace or found a bargain at a thrift store, knowing how to tell the difference between real pearls and fake can save you a lot of guesswork and potential disappointment. It's one of those classic jewelry dilemmas—fakes have become incredibly sophisticated over the years, and some of the high-end "imitation" pearls can actually look better than low-quality real ones at first glance. But don't worry, you don't need to be a certified gemologist to figure it out. There are several quick, hands-on tests you can do right now to see what you're actually holding. ...

May 3, 2026 · 7 min · Roxane Rayco