Can the Pearl Tooth Test Really Tell If a Pearl Is Real?
At Laxminarayan Pearls, we understand how important it is to ensure the authenticity of your pearl jewelry—especially if you’re investing in timeless classics like our Plain Pearl Necklaces or luxurious Hyderabadi Pearl Sets.
One popular way people test pearl authenticity at home is with the pearl tooth test. But how reliable is it?
What is the Pearl Tooth Test?
The pearl tooth test is a simple method that can help you distinguish between real and fake pearls. To perform it, gently rub a pearl against the edge of your front tooth. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty due to its natural layers of nacre, while a fake pearl—often made from plastic or glass—will feel smooth.
Why the grit? Natural pearls form over time as oysters coat irritants with layers of nacre, creating tiny ridges you can feel. This unique texture gives pearls their beautiful inner glow, a hallmark of genuine quality you’ll find in our Button Pearls Sets and Choker Necklace Sets.
But the tooth test alone isn’t foolproof—so we recommend several other checks to confirm if your pearls are authentic.
9 Additional Ways to Tell If a Pearl is Real
1. Weight Test
Real pearls are heavier due to their dense nacre. Lightweight pearls are likely faux, unless made with shell composites.
2. Drill Hole Inspection
Check for flaking or chipping around holes. Real pearls have clean, smooth drill holes. See the precision work on our Single Line Pendant Necklaces.
3. No Two Are Alike
Genuine pearls are never perfectly identical. Even well-matched strands, like those in our Zig Zag Pearl Sets, will show minor variations.
4. Size vs. Price
Large pearls like those in South Sea Necklaces are rare and expensive. A large yet cheap pearl is likely a fake.
5. Check the Knotting
Authentic pearl strands are knotted individually to prevent damage. Discover this fine craftsmanship in our Four Line Pearl Necklaces.
6. Color Consistency
Unusual or overly bright colors are often signs of dyed faux pearls. We offer naturally elegant shades in our Pearl Necklace Sets.
7. Temperature Test
Real pearls feel cool to the touch and gradually warm up against your skin. Try this with our Single Layer Pearl Necklaces.
8. Look for Imperfections
Perfectly uniform pearls often indicate imitation. At Laxminarayan Pearls, our Chandani Pearl Set showcases how small natural imperfections enhance beauty.
9. Luster Test: Glow vs. Shine
Real pearls glow with depth, unlike the surface shine of fakes. Browse our Pearl Studs with AD Stone to see the natural luster that only authentic pearls possess.
Trust the Experts at Laxminarayan Pearls
From timeless classics to trendsetting designs, every piece in our exclusive collections is handpicked for authenticity and quality. Visit our Charminar store in Hyderabad or shop online with confidence knowing you’re choosing real pearls from a name trusted across generations.
Ready to experience true elegance?
Explore our Pendant Pearl Necklaces or browse the Button Pearl Necklace with Jeko Ball—each crafted to make a lasting impression.
