| The fact that such beauty can occur naturally is what | | | | scales. |
| makes pearls so valuable. It's hard to put a price on | | | | Any jewelry expert can tell right away if a pearl is real |
| something so singular. | | | | or fake. They can usually tell the difference by looking |
| Real pearls fall into two categories: natural and | | | | through the drill hole. But the average consumer has no |
| cultured. | | | | way of really telling the difference. Some recommend |
| Natural pearls are formed by oysters completely | | | | the "tooth test". The "tooth test" is a layman's pearl |
| without interference from the human world. Real pearls | | | | authenticity test. You simply rub a strand of pearls |
| are nature's miracle. | | | | across your front teeth. Real pearls will have a "gritty" |
| Cultured pearls are also formed by oysters, but they | | | | texture, while fake pearls will feel very smooth. |
| are prompted to grow by pearl growers. | | | | But the only sure-fire way to determine the authenticity |
| Non-naturally formed pearls or man-made pearls are | | | | of a pearl, for those who aren't in the know, is an |
| not created in an oyster shell at all. They are made in | | | | X-ray machine. An X-ray will be able to determine the |
| machines, and while they can be an attractive addition | | | | difference between a real and naturally produced pearl |
| to one's jewelry box, the hold no value. Man-made | | | | and a pearl that was cultured. |
| pearls are also called faux pearls, fashion pearls, | | | | Not everyone can afford a real pearl necklace. And |
| simulated pearls or manufactured pearls. | | | | while there is no question as to which one is better: |
| Man-made pearls are created from various materials | | | | real or fake, it really depends on your budget. There |
| including glass, plastic, ceramic, shells and they are | | | | are some exquisite man-made pearls on the market to |
| normally varnished with a lacquer mixed with fish | | | | make any woman proud to display. |