A guide by Sri Jagdamba Pearls on identifying real pearls, understanding quality, and choosing certified, timeless pearl jewellery.
Sri Jagdamba Pearls
For centuries, pearls have symbolised grace, purity, and timeless luxury. Whether worn by royalty or passed down as precious heirlooms, pearls continue to hold a special place in jewellery design and emotional value. Yet, as their popularity grows and global accessibility increases, the pearl market has also become more complex. Alongside genuine pearls, there are now cultured varieties of varying grades, treated pearls, and synthetic imitations that resemble the real thing at a quick glance - but differ greatly in quality and value.
As a heritage brand rooted in authenticity and craftsmanship, Sri Jagdamba Pearls believes that consumers deserve clarity when making a pearl purchase. A pearl isn’t just a fashion choice - it is a long-term investment, and understanding what makes it genuine, valuable, and long-lasting is the foundation of making a confident purchase.
Knowing What You’re Buying
The first step to buying pearls intelligently is understanding that not all pearls are the same. Natural pearls, formed without human intervention, are extremely rare. Cultured pearls - which make up the majority of the market today - are still real pearls, grown organically inside oysters or mussels through careful pearl farming.
Among cultured pearls, the origin adds further distinction. Freshwater pearls are typically more accessible, while saltwater varieties such as Akoya, Tahitian, and South Sea pearls are prized for their exceptional lustre, rarity, and size. Synthetic or imitation pearls, on the other hand, are man-made alternatives crafted from materials such as plastic, glass, or shell composites. While visually appealing, they lack the internal structure, natural beauty, and investment value of genuine pearls.
Visual and Physical Indicators of Authenticity
The beauty of a real pearl lies in its lustre - a natural depth of glow created by layers of nacre. Authentic pearls reflect light with subtle softness and depth rather than mirror-like shine. Natural variations in surface texture, shape, and size are normal and often add character. Perfect uniformity, especially at a very low price point, can be a sign of imitation.
Authentic pearls also feel different. They tend to be cool to the touch, gradually warming with wear. Synthetic beads, particularly those made of plastic, adjust immediately to body temperature. Even traditional methods such as the gentle “tooth test,” where a real pearl feels slightly grainy due to nacre layers, remain helpful indicators when used carefully.
Craftsmanship and Setting Reveal the Truth
A closer look at the jewellery construction often reveals the authenticity of pearls. Clean drilling, quality clasping, and secure setting are expected in fine pearl jewellery. Chipping, peeling, glue residue, or uneven drilling may indicate a synthetic or low-quality treated pearl.
The Importance of Certification and Trustworthy Sellers
Pearls are an investment - financially and sentimentally - and therefore should always be purchased from a trusted, established jeweller. A reputable retailer will be transparent about origin, quality grading, treatment, and care instructions, and will provide certification from a recognised authority. After-sales services such as cleaning, restringing, polishing, and evaluation further demonstrate reliability and commitment to craftsmanship.
“Over the years, we’ve met many customers who shared stories of being misled-buying imitation pearls at premium prices and only discovering the truth much later. The disappointment stays far longer than the purchase. Pricing should also align with value. Factors such as pearl type, luster, symmetry, size, and rarity directly influence cost. A piece that appears premium but is inexplicably low in price warrants closer evaluation.” shared Avanish Agarwal, Managing Partner, Sri Jagdamba Pearls.
Caring for Pearls Beyond Purchase
Pearls are organic and respond to environmental exposure. Perfumes, hairspray, and harsh cleaning substances can dull their glow over time. Storing pearls separately, wiping them after each wear, and avoiding unnecessary moisture ensures they retain their natural radiance for generations.
Buying pearls is not merely a transaction - it is an emotional choice and often a meaningful milestone. With awareness and the right guidance, the experience becomes something to enjoy, appreciate, and eventually pass forward.
Choose pearls that are real, certified, and crafted with integrity. Choose a legacy - For more information, visit - Sri Jagdamba Pearls
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