How to Tell Real Pearls from Fake at Home

Two Quick & Easy Tests You Can Do Yourself

Pearls are timeless, elegant, and often treasured for life — but how can you be sure the ones you have (or are about to buy) are the real deal?

While there are many professional methods to test pearls, we’ll show you just two super simple tests you can try at home with no special tools.

Test #1: The Acetone Test

What you need: Nail polish remover (100% acetone)

Real pearls are made of layers of natural nacre. Fake pearls, especially plastic or coated glass ones, commonly called "shell pearls", are often coated with synthetic materials to imitate the shimmer of nacre.

How to do it:

• Dab a bit of acetone (like nail polish remover) on a cotton swab.
• Gently rub it on the surface of the pearl, or drop a small amount directly on it.

Results:

• If the pearl dissolves, discolors, or the surface appears damaged, it's fake.
• If nothing happens, and it retains its luster — that's a good sign it’s real.

 Test #2: Inspect the Drill Hole

If you have a pearl bead, look closely at the hole where the string enters.

Here’s what to look for:

• Real pearls will show clean, crisp edges at the drill hole, and you might see slight chipping or flaking of nacre around the edge — a good sign of authenticity.
• Fake pearls often have perfectly smooth, plastic-like holes, and the coating may even look like it’s been painted on.

You can use a magnifying glass or just your phone’s camera zoom for a closer look.

 In Summary

If you're unsure whether your pearls are real, just remember:

1. Acetone Test – If it dissolves, it’s fake.
2. Drill Hole Check – Clean edges and chipped nacre usually mean real.

Still unsure? A quick visit to a trusted jeweler can confirm it for you.

Stay informed, and shop smart!