How to Differentiate Natural Pearls from Cultured Pearls
How to Differentiate Natural Pearls from Cultured Pearls
There are various types of pearls in the market today. Pearls are basically classified into two categories, the cultured pearls and the natural pearl. Just a brief background on these two types of gems. The production of cultured pearls involves human intervention, while the natural pearl is purely produced by nature. This is the reason why natural pearls are more valuable and rare than the cultured ones because of the way they are produced. But with all the pearls in the market being sold all over the world, how would we know if a pearl is au naturel or cultured?
One way of determining whether a pearl is natural or cultured is by observing the thickness of the nacre. Nacre is the substance that makes up pearls. But how exactly do we check it? Here's how. Roll a strand of pearls on a white surface under a strong light. Cultured pearls appear brighter then darker as you rotate it. Another way of checking whether a pearl is natural or cultured is by candling. To do this, put the pearl on the lens of a flashlight. Natural pearls would appear as a dark round smudge while cultured pearls will show parallel stripes.Another way of checking is by plainly observing it. Pearls that look exactly like another pearl is probably not a natural pearl.
Natural pearls are special pearls because it is made by nature. It is one of a kind and very valuable so if you happen to have a natural pearl or if you are lucky enough to get hold of one then take care of it very well. It is mother nature's gift that is ought to be loved and taken cared of.