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Consequently, natural strands do not appear as well matched for color, shape, luster and size as those which are cultured.
Other Tests
X-radiograph Test: This is the most reliable way to distinguish between natural and cultured pearls. On an
Other Tests
X-radiograph Test: This is the most reliable way to distinguish between natural and cultured pearls. On an
x-radiograph negative, cultured pearls usually show a clear separation between core and nacre. Plus, their core normally looks lighter than the nacre coating. X-rayed natural pearls tend to either look the same tone throughout or get darker in their center. A mantle tissue nucleus will look like a very dark, irregular-shaped void.
The disadvantage of x-ray tests is that it can cost between $100 and $300 to have them done, and there are few gem labs that have the required equipment. Stephen J. Kennedy of the Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britian provides good photos of x-radiographs in an article entitled "Pearl Identification" in the January-March 1998 issue of the Australian Gemmologist. This is also an excellent source of additional information on the identification of natural pearls.
X-ray Fluorescence: This test is used in combination with an x-radiograph to provide the added information of whether the pearl is freshwater or saltwater. Natural saltwater pearls rarely fluoresce to x-rays. Freshwater pearls have a fairly strong yellowish x-ray fluorescence, whereas bead-nucleated salt-water pearls.
If the pearls are of good quality and preliminary tests suggest they may be natural, then it's advisable to have them x-rayed. Appraisers and jewelers can send them to the appropriate labs for you. Some of the gem-labs that have the facilities to do x-ray tests are listed below. Jewelers in your area may know of others.
The disadvantage of x-ray tests is that it can cost between $100 and $300 to have them done, and there are few gem labs that have the required equipment. Stephen J. Kennedy of the Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britian provides good photos of x-radiographs in an article entitled "Pearl Identification" in the January-March 1998 issue of the Australian Gemmologist. This is also an excellent source of additional information on the identification of natural pearls.
X-ray Fluorescence: This test is used in combination with an x-radiograph to provide the added information of whether the pearl is freshwater or saltwater. Natural saltwater pearls rarely fluoresce to x-rays. Freshwater pearls have a fairly strong yellowish x-ray fluorescence, whereas bead-nucleated salt-water pearls.
If the pearls are of good quality and preliminary tests suggest they may be natural, then it's advisable to have them x-rayed. Appraisers and jewelers can send them to the appropriate labs for you. Some of the gem-labs that have the facilities to do x-ray tests are listed below. Jewelers in your area may know of others.
