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Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Is there a fake pearl?

1 Answer
Is there a fake pearl?
Yes, there is a fake pearl. In fact, many materials can be used to make faux pearls, such as glass, plastic, mollusk shells, alabaster, bone and stone. These alternate materials typically feel smooth, and their texture sets them apart from real pearls, which have a slightly gritty or rough surface. If you'd like help determining whether a piece of jewelry has real or fake pearls, seek the opinion of an experienced jeweler or certified appraiser. Shop a large collection of pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
Shop for Pearl Jewelry on 1stDibs
Akoya Cultured Pearl Necklace, 18k Gold Clasp, 58cm, British Colonial
Located in Buckingham , Buckinghamshire
A classic and elegant strand of Akoya cultured pearls, beautifully graduated and hand-knotted, finished with a refined 18k yellow gold bow-form clasp. The necklace presents a soft cr...
Category

Vintage 1980s British British Colonial Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold

18K Gold Stud Earrings with Golden South Sea Pearls and Diamond Accents
Located in Chesterland, OH
Elegant and timeless stud earrings crafted in 18-karat gold, featuring luminous golden South Sea pearls complemented by sparkling natural diamond accents. The golden South Sea pearl...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold

Estate South Sea Pearl & Diamond Platinum Ring 15.2mm
Located in Orlando, FL
Large South Sea Pearl & Diamond Ring in Platinum Elegant platinum ring centered with a large round pearl measuring approximately 15.2 mm in diameter. The pearl displays strong luste...
Category

1990s Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, South Sea Pearl, Platinum

Antique 15ct Yellow Gold Edwardian Blue Enamel Diamond & Pearl Brooch Circa 1905
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Blue Enamel Pearl & Diamond Brooch 15ct Gold Circa 1905 This Edwardian brooch, crafted in 15ct gold and dated 6th December 1905, is a beautifully preserved sentimental...
Category

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 15k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel

15ct Gold 1911 King George V Coronation Pearl Brooch with an Enamel Crown
Located in Brighton, GB
Antique Commemorative 1911 Brooch 15ct Gold Stamped Circa 1911 A commemorative brooch crafted in 15ct yellow gold to mark the coronation of King George V in 1911. The piece featur...
Category

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Brooches

Materials

Pearl, Gold, 15k Gold, Enamel

Exceptional Large Natural Baroque Pearl Necklace 29.5" – 14K White Gold Clasp
Located in Chesterland, OH
Presented here is a truly exceptional necklace composed of large natural baroque pearls of remarkable scale and character. Baroque pearls are celebrated for their organic, sculptural...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, Natural Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold

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