The Ultimate Pearl Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know before buying Pearl Stone

Pearls have an everlasting quality about them. For centuries, their gentle luster has fascinated royalty, celebrities, and jewelry lovers alike. When it comes time to make a pearl purchase, however, the options can be overwhelming: freshwater or saltwater, cultured or natural, round or baroque, and white or golden. Understanding the value of pearls and how to determine if they are real ensures you will not make an expensive mistake while enjoying a beautiful pearl for generations.

This guide to buying pearls will cover everything you need to know, from how to buy pearls to how to identify real pearls and understand pearl grading, quality factors of pearls, and certifications. Whether you are a first-time buyer or expanding on your collection or a jewelry maker, this will be your guide for making an informed and confident purchase.

Explore a curated collection of genuine pearls at GemstonesForSale! 

What Makes Pearls Unique 

Pearls are unique among gems because they are created by living organisms such as oysters and mollusks rather than mined in the ground. When a small irritant or bead is placed inside the shell, the mollusk begins to secrete nacre around the irritant or bead. Over time, the layers of nacre wrap around the irritant, creating a beautiful, lustrous pearl.

Since pearls are a natural product, no two are alike. The color, size, luster, and blemishes tell the story of an individual pearl's creation. The more luminous the luster and the fewer blemishes on a pearl, the more it adds to its rarity and hence its value. That natural luster, often described as "soft inner light," makes pearls different from any other gemstones mined from the earth.

If you're looking for styling ideas before choosing your pearls, take a look at how celebrities have embraced the gem in our feature on Iconic Pearl Moments in Celebrity Fashion.

How to Tell if Pearls Are Real 

As the market is saturated with imitations, knowing how to identify real pearls is essential. Original pearls can be determined by their unique characteristics, differentiating them from synthetic and plastic pearls: 

1. The Tooth Test  

Rub a pearl against your teeth with a gentle motion. A real pearl is slightly gritty because of its nacre layers, while fake pearls are perfectly smooth or glassy. 

2. Weight and Temperature  

Real pearls feel heavier in weight and, upon first touching, feel cool to the skin because they warm up more slowly than the skin. Fake pearls, typically plastic, will always feel lighter and are often room temperature to the touch. 

3. Surface Texture  

Look at a pearl in natural light. Most original pearls will have tiny irregularities, often placed on top of natural blemishes from the shell they occupied; you can never find multiple identical pearls! If a pearl is found to be flawless and mirror-smooth, it is most likely fake. 

4. Drill Holes 

Look closely at the drill holes. Real pearls have clean, sharp edges with layers of nacre. Plastic pearls will have chipped edges due to paint or imperfect drill holes. 

If you would like total peace of mind, ask your jeweler for a GIA pearl report or an alternative and comparable pearl certification prior to your purchase.

Want to avoid damaging your jewelry while cleaning? Learn the key differences between Pearl and Mother of Pearl to understand which care methods are safe for each.

Pearl Quality Factors Explained 

The following pearl quality factors determine pearl value and beauty. If you know what to look for when purchasing pearls, you will feel confident about your purchase. There is no single global standard for grading pearls; however, the majority of jewelers will evaluate pearls based on six primary pearl quality factors: luster, nacre, surface, size, shape, and color.

• Luster: The brilliance or glow that comes from the reflection of light off the surface of the pearl. High-luster pearls have sharp, mirror-like reflections and are the most desirable.

• Nacre Thickness: The number of layers of nacre that surround the nucleus. The thicker the nacre, the richer the luster, and the longer it will last.

• Surface: A high-quality surface will have few blemishes or spots. Natural imperfections are acceptable; however, they should be limited.

• Size: Refers to the size of a pearl, measured in millimeters. The larger the pearl, the higher the rarity and price.

• Shape: Round pearls are the most desirable, but baroque and oval shapes have their own uniqueness.

• Color: Color is dependent on the mollusk and the body of water that the mollusk inhabits. Common colors are white, cream, pink, gold, silver, and black. Undertones like rose or ivory add individuality.

When comparing two pearls, always start with luster; it's the most significant pearl quality factor regarding beauty and value. 

For anyone curious about the traditional and modern symbolism behind pearls, our June Birthstone Guide offers a beautiful perspective on why this gem has remained so cherished.

Freshwater vs. Saltwater Pearls Guide 

The selection between freshwater and saltwater pearls is generally one of the first decisions you will make when it comes to the mere act of learning how to buy pearls. Each style has different properties, price ranges, and visual appeal. Knowing the difference explains how to choose real pearls to suit a style, budget, or purpose.

• Freshwater Pearls: Freshwater pearls are grown in mussels in rivers and lakes, primarily in China. They tend to be the least expensive and will have the largest variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Although the luster of freshwater pearls is not as strong as the luster of saltwater pearls, they can still be versatile and often serve as casual wear or build on a pearl jewelry collection.

• Akoya Pearls (Saltwater): Akoya pearls are cultured pearls that come from oysters that live in saltwater, mostly in Japan and China. Akoya pearls are known for their classic shades of white or cream, perfectly round shape, and sharp luster. They are a traditional choice used in elegant necklaces and accompanying jewelry.

• Tahitian Pearls (Saltwater): Tahitian pearls are pearls cultured in French Polynesia, and they have natural dark colors like black, green, silver, and peacock. They are eye-catching and incredibly appealing due to their exotic appearance.

• South Sea Pearls (Saltwater): These pearls are sourced from Australia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. They are the heaviest and the most extravagant pearls that can be farmed. They boast natural thickness that is unequaled by other types of pearls, and they exhibit natural gold or white colors. They are the most valuable pearls and are typically made into investment pieces or heirlooms.

For know how to clean and clear pearls stone: you can read How To Clean and Clear Pearl Stones & Jewelry-Complete Step-By-Step Guide.

Pearl Certifications 

When you purchase certified pearls, it enhances your confidence in the purchase. The GIA pearl certification or report is one of the industry's leading and most respected documents. The report confirms important aspects of the pearl, such as

• If the pearl is natural or cultured

• What type of pearl is it: freshwater or saltwater

• If it has been treated in any way

• The mollusk species

• The pearl measurements, color, and nacre specifics

You should always check the certification verification on the GIA website with its report number. Other respected labs include IGI (International Gemological Institute) and PSL (Pearl Science Laboratory) in Japan. Having a current certificate verifies its authenticity and, over time, can enhance resale value.

After refreshing your pearls, explore the latest styles in Pearl Jewelry Trends 2024 to wear them more confidently.

Types of Pearl with Price Comparison

Here are some common types of pearls and what makes them cost what they do:

Depending on the grade of the pearl, the quality of the surface, and the thickness of the nacre, these ranges can change.

If you’re ready to start comparing real, high-quality pearls, our Pearl Stone Collection is a great place to begin your search.

Genuine Pearl Buying Tips 

Follow these genuine tips for purchasing pearls to ensure a smart purchase:

• Purchase only from trustworthy jewelers: Make sure they are transparent in their pricing, they have certification, and they have a reasonable return policy for any issue that may arise. 

• Ask for documentation: Once again, always request a GIA pearl report or other trusted certification. 

• Check under natural light: The luster of a real luxe pearl should be soft and radiant, not fake or overly shiny. 

• Match the color and tone to your skin: Cool tones look better for silver or white. Warmer (warm) skin tones will glow with cream or golden colors. 

• Consider pearls that are carefully compared against each other: It's always a good idea to compare 3 or more necklaces against each other, and you will be able to see the differences in luster down the strand. 

• Nacre thickness should also be considered: Thicker nacre generally means the pearl will last longer and look beautiful. 

• Care for Pearls: You should take care to have them treated gently. Always keep them separated from other jewelry so that they don’t get scratched. 

Before choosing other gemstones to pair with pearls, learn the unique differences between Pearl vs Coral—from benefits to appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

"Even seasoned buyers can make expensive mistakes when purchasing pearls, so knowing the common mistakes can be helpful when it comes to picking genuine, high-quality pearls."

• Not Checking for a Certification: It is never a good idea to buy expensive pearls without a certified GIA pearl report.

• Expecting pearls to be perfect: You should expect some surface flaws; it's part of their charm, and it means they are real.

• Overlooking the thickness of the nacre: If a pearl has a thin nacre (such as 0.5 mm), it won't maintain its integrity (or shine) for long.

• Buying from a seller who is not a reputable business: Always check reviews and certificates where applicable.

• Storing pearls improperly: Pearls require some slight humidity; in a container that is airtight, they can lose their luster.

Now that your pearl jewelry is cleansed and energetically cleared, explore the healing and emotional benefits of Pearl Stone.

Final Thoughts 

More than just jewelry, pearls are a product of natural artistry.  Whether they are simple freshwater pearls for everyday use or grand South Sea pearls for formal occasions, understanding the factors that determine the quality of pearls can allow you to make an appropriate decision. Understanding how to determine if pearls are real, the determining factors of grading pearls, and checking lab certifications can change the purchase of pearls from a challenge to a fun and enlightening occasion.

If you would like to round out or build your collection with confidence, consider looking for reputable GemstonesForSale for certified pearls, diamonds, and other superior gemstones. Regardless of what you are buying, your rule should be to always buy from reputable sellers who will provide you with clear certifications, descriptions, and grading. This way, you will know you are buying real pearls and the best quality stones.

FAQ 

Q: Are freshwater pearls genuine?

Yes, freshwater pearls are authentic cultured pearls that are produced inside mussel shells. They are usually less expensive than natural pearls and can be found in a variety of colors and shapes.

Q: Which type of pearl holds the highest value?

The South Sea pearl, especially the golden South Sea pearl, is the most valuable type of pearl because of its size, often achieved thickness, and rarity of color.

Q: What does "pearl luster" mean, and how do I evaluate it?

Luster is the degree of reflection light has off the surface of a pearl. A fine-quality pearl will have a clear reflection and an internal glow.

Q: How do I know if a GIA pearl certificate is legitimate?

The GIA has an online report verification tool on its website. Look for your pearl's certificate and compare the number there.

Q: Can I wear pearls every day?

Yes, use caution, and you may wear them every day, but make sure to care for them properly. Wipe them down after each use, and avoid applying perfume and lotion while wearing the pearls, as well as putting them in a soft pouch when storing the pearls.