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Author Topic:   Mother of Pearl Handled pieces
carlaz

Posts: 239
Registered: Jan 2001

iconnumber posted 04-04-2008 10:47 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for carlaz     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I am hoping someone can assist me in how to confirm if pieces are real mother of pearl vs. plastic without harming the piece to find out?

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argentum1

Posts: 602
Registered: Apr 2004

iconnumber posted 04-05-2008 09:14 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for argentum1     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
This is from an antiques jewelry dealer I have know for years. According to her there are three ways to tell the difference.
  1. Place the piece on your cheek or lip. If it feels cold it is real. Plastic will feel warm.
  2. Tap the item on your teeth and there should be a click or hard sound. The fake will produce a dull sound.
  3. Heat a straight pin to red hot( use a pair of tweezers or pliers to avoid burning yourself). Choose a spot that will be hidden and press the point of the hot pin into the surface. If it does not penetrate/sink into the surface it is real. The pin will sink into the surface of the fake.

To use any of the above methods I would think one would have to practice on a known authentic piece against a known fake. I personally have never tried these methods but she has been a dealer for over 50 years.

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FWG

Posts: 845
Registered: Aug 2005

iconnumber posted 04-05-2008 05:23 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for FWG     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I use the tooth-tap often, have for years, and find it quite accurate. The needle is even more so, of course, but is destructive if the piece is plastic....

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carlaz

Posts: 239
Registered: Jan 2001

iconnumber posted 04-08-2008 10:14 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for carlaz     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Thank you for the very interesting response although my dentist may not be so happy...

[This message has been edited by carlaz (edited 04-08-2008).]

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Dale

Posts: 2132
Registered: Nov 2002

iconnumber posted 04-08-2008 08:23 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Dale     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
One sort of disgusting way is to suck on the handle and be alert for a salt taste. The tang indicates salt water, which is where MOP originates. Have found this works time after time. Also check for variation in patterns on the MOP. Natural pearl will have it.

Problem is that there is a method in which real MOP, small bits, is ground up and suspended in a resin. Old method, still used I suspect. Also, feel for the slight difference that would indicate carving rather than casting.

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