An Overview of Pearl Identification Techniques | GIA Knowledge Sessions Webinar Series

GIA Knowledge Sessions Webinar - recorded live on June 4, 2020.

The nacreous and non-nacreous layers that make up a pearl conceal many mysteries but also offer many clues to the gem’s origin — for those who can read them, that is. How do we know if a pearl is natural or cultured, saltwater or freshwater and what mollusk created it? Furthermore, how do we detect treatments especially on pearls' colors? GIA Manager of Pearl Identification Dr. Chunhui Zhou dives into pearl identification methods. From simple observation to x-ray radiography and DNA barcoding, learn how and why GIA scientists analyze these unique and lustrous treasures.

Read more of Dr. Chunhui Zhou's research:
https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/sum...
https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/sum...
https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/win...