Artificial Pearls Explained: Types, Quality and Care

Pearls have a timeless elegance, and artificial pearls make that elegance available for every day. From a single strand to pearl-covered jhumkas and bridal chokers, they are everywhere in imitation jewellery. This guide explains what artificial pearls are, how they compare with natural and cultured pearls, and how to keep their lustre.

Natural, cultured and artificial pearls

GIA explains that cultured pearls result from the deliberate insertion of a bead or piece of tissue that the mollusc coats with nacre, whereas natural pearls form around an irritant without human help. Artificial pearls are entirely manufactured.

How artificial pearls are made

Artificial pearls usually have two parts:

1. A core bead: typically glass, plastic (acrylic) or shell.
2. A pearlescent coating: layers of a lustrous coating applied to create the pearl's sheen.

Common types include:

• Glass pearls: glass beads with a pearly coating. They have a pleasing weight and smooth feel.
• Plastic or acrylic pearls: very light and inexpensive; good for large designs but coatings may wear faster.
• Shell pearls: beads made from shell material with a pearly coating; they feel substantial and have a good lustre.

Faux pearls in fashion history

Imitation pearls have a distinguished place in fashion. The FIDM Museum notes that in the 1920s Gabrielle Chanel designed faux pearl earrings and a pearl choker, and that her fake pearls were admired for their design rather than their material value. See History of Fashion Jewellery.

How to judge artificial pearl quality

• Lustre: a soft, deep glow rather than a flat, painted look.
• Even coating: no peeling, chips or bare spots, especially around drill holes.
• Consistent size and shape in a strand (unless intentionally graduated or baroque).
• Smooth surface without bubbles or ridges.
• Neat drill holes that do not crack the coating.
• Secure stringing or setting: knotted strands or well-glued pearl caps.

A simple tip

Gently rub two pearls together. Many people use this to compare textures; however, results can be misleading and rubbing can damage coatings, so do it only very lightly, if at all, on pieces you own.

Where artificial pearls appear

• Pearl strands and chokers
• Pearl drops on jhumkas, chandbalis and necklaces
• Pearl studs and drop earrings
• Bridal hair accessories
• Kundan-style and temple sets with pearl fringes
• Bracelets and brooches

Styling pearls

• Office: pearl studs or a single strand.
• Sarees: pearl chokers or multi-strand necklaces, especially with pastels and ivory.
• Bridal: pearl-accented kundan-style or polki-inspired sets.
• Casual: pearls with denim and white shirts for a modern twist.
• Layering: pearls with gold chains for texture. See Layered Necklaces.

Caring for artificial pearls

Pearl coatings are delicate.

1. Last on, first off: put pearls on after perfume, hairspray and make-up.
2. Wipe after each wear with a soft, dry cloth to remove skin oils and cosmetics.
3. Keep dry: water can damage coatings and weaken threads.
4. Avoid chemicals: sanitiser, perfume and household cleaners can dull or peel coatings.
5. Store flat, separately, in a soft pouch or lined box; hanging strands can stretch thread.
6. Restring strands when thread looks stretched or discoloured.

See Protecting Jewellery from Perfume and Cosmetics.

Key takeaway

Artificial pearls bring classic elegance to every outfit and occasion. Choose pearls with deep, even lustre and well-finished holes, protect their coatings from chemicals and moisture, and they will keep glowing beautifully.

Sources and further reading

• GIA Gem Encyclopedia — Pearl
• FIDM Museum — Designer costume jewelry: Chanel and Schiaparelli

Written by

HANSINI369 Editorial Team

Our editors research jewellery types, materials, care and craft, and review guides when materials, standards or recommendations change. Read our editorial policy.