Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are the pearls real?

Absolutely! Every pearl revealed at Shell & Pearl Jewelry is a genuine cultured pearl.

Most pearls you see in fine jewelry stores are cultured pearls. While they are real pearls, they are created with a little help from pearl farmers to begin the natural process. Once started, the oyster does the rest, layer by beautiful layer creating a genuine pearl over time.

Natural pearls are incredibly rare, occurring in only about 1 out of every 10,000 oysters. Because of their rarity, they are exceptionally valuable and are rarely found in modern jewelry.

Cultured pearls have been treasured for over 100 years and remain the standard for fine pearl jewelry around the world.

Want to know if a pearl is real? Try the simple "tooth test!" Gently rub your pearl across the front of your tooth. A genuine cultured pearl will feel slightly gritty or textured, while an imitation pearl or plastic bead will feel smooth and slippery.