How to buy pearls By eHow Fashion

Step1 Decide whether you want natural, cultured or imitation pearls. Keep in mind that imitation pearls are costume jewelry and are of very little value; natural pearls are almost impossible to find in stores and often aren't as high in quality as cultured pearls.

Step2 Choose a pearl shape: round, symmetrical or baroque and/or irregular. Spherelike round pearls are the most expensive and highly prized. Symmetrical pearls, such as those shaped like teardrops, should be evenly shaped.

Step3 Consider pearl size, the most important factor in price. The larger the pearl, the costlier it will be.

Step4 Decide if you want a double-strand necklace of smaller pearls (cheaper) or a single strand of larger pearls (more expensive).

Step5 Place pearls directly under a light on a flat, white surface in order to inspect them.

Step6 Inspect each pearl for luster. Lustrous pearls have a shiny surface, good contrast between light and dark areas, and strong, crisp reflections. Avoid pearls that resemble dull, cloudy white beads.

Step7 Look at the pearl's 'orient,' a play of iridescent rainbow colors'characteristic of high-quality pearls.

Step8 Examine pearl color, which can be white, yellow, black, gray or various other colors. Ask whether the color is natural or dyed; the latter is less expensive. More exotic natural colors are more expensive.

Step9 Inspect the pearl's 'overtone,' a tint secondary to the main body color. Pinkish overtones can increase pearl price, while green or blue tints may lower the price.

Step10 Verify the pearl's cleanliness by checking that it has minimal surface blemishes such as nicks, cracks, pits or discoloration.

Step11 Turn the pearl in your hands to examine it from all angles. Color, shape, smoothness and luster all may vary within a single pearl. Roll a strand of pearls on a flat surface to test them for roundness'round pearls roll more smoothly and evenly.

Distinguishing Real Pearls From Imitations

Step1 Run the pearl lightly along the biting edge of your front teeth. A real pearl will feel slightly gritty or sandy, whereas a fake pearl will feel smooth. This is a standard test for authenticity that most sellers will allow, as long as you ask first.
Step2 Look at and feel the pearl. Absolutely flawless-looking pearls, as well as those that feel unusually light when you bounce them in your hands, are probably fake.
Step3 Examine the pearl under a 10magnifier (a loupe). Imitation pearls appear grainy.