Question 1

Are black pearls real pearls?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some black pearls are real pearls. Genuine black pearls typically come from Tahiti, sourced from black-lip pearl oysters. Some jewelry features synthetic black pearls created in laboratories. Explore a selection of black pearl jewelry from some of the world's top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 2

Should you wear pearl earrings with a pearl necklace?

Accepted Answer

There isn't a hard-and-fast rule about whether you should wear pearl earrings with a pearl necklace. While pearl earrings can complement a pearl necklace, you're free to mix and match pieces as you see fit. For example, you might join a multi-strand statement necklace with a pair of simple gold hoops or diamond studs. A dramatic gemstone necklace can be balanced with a pair of understated pearl button earrings. On 1stDibs, shop a large assortment of pearl jewelry.

Question 3

Is there a fake pearl?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a fake pearl. In fact, many materials can be used to make faux pearls, such as glass, plastic, mollusk shells, alabaster, bone and stone. These alternate materials typically feel smooth, and their texture sets them apart from real pearls, which have a slightly gritty or rough surface. If you'd like help determining whether a piece of jewelry has real or fake pearls, seek the opinion of an experienced jeweler or certified appraiser. Shop a large collection of pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 4

Are there freshwater pearls?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are freshwater pearls. Certain species of pearl-producing mollusks do live in bodies of freshwater. Among them are Hyriopsis cumingi and Hyriopsis schlegeli. Most freshwater pearls come from the United States and Japan. Shop a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is a pearl clasp?

Accepted Answer

A pearl clasp is an opening and closing device that holds a necklace together - in this case, a pearl necklace. The clasp works by hooking one end of the necklace into the other end and locking in place. Shop a collection of expertly vetted jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is a coin pearl?

Accepted Answer

Coin pearls are a type of flat rounded pearls that are almost coin shaped. They can be worn casually or as an elegant accessory. There is a range of pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 7

Where are pearl earrings from?

Accepted Answer

No one knows for sure where pearl earrings originated, but scholars have determined that they date back to ancient times. According to surviving records, the ancient Chinese often presented members of royal families with pearls as gifts. During the 1st century B.C., Julius Caesar passed a law stating that only members of the ruling class could wear pearl jewelry. Shop a large collection of pearl earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What are Mikimoto pearls?

Accepted Answer

Mikimoto pearls are cultured pearls sourced from Akoya oysters located in the waters off the shores of Honshu, Japan, by the jewelry house of Mikimoto. Cultured pearls are genuine pearls produced with human assistance to encourage production and promote the development of a more attractive product. Find a variety of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Why are pearls so special?

Accepted Answer

Pearls are so special because they are rare in nature. They form only when something gets inside an oyster or mussel and causes irritation. The mollusk then secretes substances similar to those found on its shell. These harden around the foreign body to create a pearl. Only about one out of every 10,000 wild oysters will ever make a single pearl, and the vast majority of the pearls that occur naturally are too small to use in jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of pearl jewelry.

Question 10

Are Mikimoto pearls worth it?

Accepted Answer

Many jewelry lovers believe that Mikimoto pearls are worth it. After opening his first eponymous store in a white-stone building reminiscent of the color of pearls in Tokyo in 1899, founder Kokichi Mikimoto quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Mikimoto sent his jewelers to Europe to study the latest trends in jewelry and design. They brought back knowledge of Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, which were incorporated into pieces featuring Mikimoto’s pearls.

Following World War II, Mikimoto opened stores around the world, with locations now in Paris, New York City, Los Angeles and Shanghai. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles.

However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Mikimoto pearl jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection.

Find Mikimoto pearl jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How can you tell an antique pearl?

Accepted Answer

The process of telling an antique pearl varies based on whether it is set in jewelry or loose. In the case of jewelry, you can look for a maker's mark and then conduct online research to find out when the company existed and made similar pieces. To be considered an antique, pearl jewelry must be at least 100 years old. In the case of a loose pearl or if you have difficulty performing research on your item, experts recommend consulting a certified appraiser, knowledgeable jeweler or experienced antique dealer. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of antique pearl jewelry.

Question 12

What is the TikTok pearl necklace?

Accepted Answer

The TikTok pearl necklace is the Vivienne Westwood Orb necklace. It features a string of pearls accented by a unique pendant. Shaped like a ball surrounded by a ring and topped off with a cross, the orb is the logo of Vivienne Westwood. Find a selection of Vivienne Westwood jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What is Korean mother of pearl?

Accepted Answer

Korean mother of pearl is abalone shell that comes from the Republic of South Korea. There, artisans use the shimmering shell fragments to decorate wooden furniture and decorative objects using an inlay technique called najeonchilgi. Shop a variety of wood furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Are freshwater pearls real?

Accepted Answer

Yes, freshwater pearls are real. They come from mussels that are naturally found in lakes and rivers. However, it is rare to find naturally occurring pearls of any kind. As a result, most of the freshwater pearls used in jewelry are cultured. The term refers to pearls created by freshwater-dwelling mussels with the assistance of human intervention. Pearls produced with this process are real, but they are not natural. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of pearl jewelry.

Question 15

Are Chanel pearls real?

Accepted Answer

Although some Chanel jewelry contains real freshwater pearls, much of their costume jewelry is made from coated glass, though they are still high quality.

Question 16

Do real pearls have a clasp?

Accepted Answer

Yes, real pearls can be on a strand with a clasp. The addition of a clasp has nothing to do with determining if the pearls are real or fake. The clasp is simply a design aspect for the piece of jewelry. Always purchase real pearls from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity. Shop a large collection of authentic pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Are pearl earrings flattering?

Accepted Answer

Yes, pearl earrings can be flattering. The key is to choose styles that complement your face shape. Pearl dangle earrings can beautifully frame a round face, while pearl hoops and drops work well with oval shapes. For a square or rectangular face, try round pearl studs or button earrings. For a diamond or triangular face, long, slender dangles set with pearls are often a great choice. Feel free to try on different types of earrings to see what you like best. Shop a large collection of pearl earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Are pearl earrings out of style?

Accepted Answer

No, pearl earrings are not out of style. Although trends are subject to seasonal change, pearls have remained popular for a very long time. Wearing pearls dates back to at least 420 B.C., with jewelry discovered in the sarcophagus of Persian royalty. Contemporary designers now experiment with unusual shapes, colors and treatments, pushing pearl jewelry beyond the traditional strand of perfect white spheres. As a result, you can find pearl earrings that are timeless, as well as looks that are in line with the latest trends. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of pearl earrings.

Question 19

Do old pearls have any value?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some old pearls have value. How much pearls are worth depends on the type of pearl, the maker and their condition. You can consult trusted online resources to get a rough idea of how much your jewelry is worth or use the services of a licensed appraiser or knowledgeable dealer for a more authoritative valuation. Find a large selection of pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 20

How can I tell if a pearl is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a pearl is real, examine it closely. Genuine pearls are reflective and lustrous, while fakes won't have reflective properties. A real pearl will be cool to the touch and warm up when worn. One test is the "tooth test," where you rub the pearl against your front teeth. If the texture is slightly rough, then it's a genuine pearl. Shop a collection of expertly-vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

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Pair of French Mirrors, Black with Inlaid Mother-of-Pearl, Baguès Style, Modern

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