How can you tell if Navajo pearls are real? (2024)

FAQs

How can you tell the difference between real and fake Navajo pearls? ›

One very simple way to tell if a pearl is real is by lightly rubbing it against the biting edge of a tooth. A real pearl will feel gritty, sandy or slightly rough. A fake pearl will feel smooth and glassy.

A genuine piece will have no wavering lines or lopsided designs, well-cut stones that are uniform in size, and no visible glue between the metal and stone. Also be on the lookout for sterling silver versus silver-plated jewelry. A quick way to tell the difference is to hold a small magnet to the piece.

Navajo Silver Beads are often referred to as Navajo Pearls. Beads like this are made by creating two hollow half domes and soldering them together in ball-like fashion.

No, real pearls are not magnetic. Pearls are composed of calcium carbonate in minute crystalline form and organic substances, which do not respond to magnets.

Avoid submerging the silver in chemicals, especially chlorine. Exposure to chlorinated water, as in swimming pools, can lead to a chemical reaction with the alloy in the metal, causing the piece to darken and turn black. Preserve the beauty of your Navajo Pearls with these care tips.

Today, most Native American jewelry, hollowware and flatware is identified by artist's initials, names or symbols that are stamped or etched onto their creations. However, that has not always been the case. In the 1920s only a few Native Americans marked their work with their initial(s), name or personal symbol.

Authentic Native American jewelry tells a story and connects people of different backgrounds through beautiful, wearable art. Wearing authentic Native-designed jewelry is a way to appreciate Native culture—not appropriate! Native artists will only sell items that it's okay for you—whether you're Native or not—to wear.

Its demand is greater than ever among collectors who want authentic jewelry that has actually been worn and coveted by the indigenous people who created it which is becoming scarcer and more valuable by the day. The Navajo had traditionally measured their wealth in terms of livestock and blankets.

For example, the soap, shampoo, conditioner, or oils you use in the shower contain chemicals that can further damage your pearl jewelry. In general, it's not a good idea to wear your pearl jewelry in the shower .

The seams along the middle of the beads can vary due to each artist's skill level and the design they are intending on creating. The top and bottom left show seams of differing degrees. However, if you look at the contemporary navajo pearls shown top and bottom right, there is no seam.

How do you test pearls with vinegar? ›

To try it for yourself, put a drop of vinegar on the pearl or submerge the pearl in a small cup of vinegar. If you can see bubbles forming from the release of carbon dioxide in the chemical reaction, your pearls are authentic.

It's often assumed that because something's old it must be valuable. That's rarely true and certainly not for pearls. Advances in technology and culturing techniques mean you can buy a much better set of pearls for far less money than in grandma's time.

Yes, old pearls can turn yellow over time due to a variety of factors. One of the primary reasons for this discoloration is the breakdown of the organic material that makes up the pearl's surface (nacre).

Pearl necklaces should almost always be knotted between each pearl. The knots prevent the pearls from rubbing against one another and they also protect your investment. If your necklace were to break, your pearls wouldn't scatter. The only exception to the knotting rule is with small, graduated strands.

In terms of difference in appearance, natural pearls have a more “organic” or baroque appearance and may not be as well-shaped or as round as their cultured pearl counterparts. This is because the nucleus inserted into the oyster is round.

The beautiful style of jewelry called Desert or Navajo Pearls are sterling silver beads traditionally made by Navajo (Diné) silversmiths. These handmade beads are commonly seen on Squash Blossom necklaces, but are also worn alone on single or multi-strand necklaces and in bracelets.