How do cultured pearls differ from imitation pearls in wedding jewellery?
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Direct answer
Cultured pearls are real pearls formed with human intervention; imitation pearls are other materials made to resemble pearls.
Ask whether a strand is natural, cultured or imitation, and whether colour treatments are disclosed. Retain that description with the invoice rather than relying on real pearl as a complete specification. For valuable purchases, independent examination can help resolve uncertainty. Avoid scratching, biting or using chemicals as home identification tests: appearance and surface feel are not reliable substitutes for a suitable professional assessment.
Sources used
Are cultured pearls real pearls?
Gemological Institute of America
Distinguishes cultured pearls from imitation materials; not a home identification procedure.Source checked:
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