This is a very interesting thread. I'm not sure there is a "one size fits all" solution. I know this forum has discussed a "black list" identifying disreputable vendors. That idea was promptly abandoned as it is fraught with peril.
Personally, I'm willing to forgive people who are not in the trade and advertise pearls as natural. Generally, as you pointed out, Mr. Marcus, a word to the wise is sufficient. I am even willing to forgive vendors in the trade who advertise pearls as natural when they are not from the states. I'm dumb about other cultures and natural may or may not mean the same to them as it does me.
I am not, however, willing to forgive those in the trade in the states, especially when they flaunt their GIA credentials lulling the buyer into a false sense of confidence. To me, that is deceptive practices. Those deceptive practices go above caveat emptor. When I am purchasing from an individual, caveat emptor is applicable. When I am purchasing from someone who presents themselves as an expert in an effort to put me at ease, that is fraud.
What's more, when that expert is caught and refuses to acknowledge the possibility of an error and continues the fraud, then my blood really begins to boil.
So, what's the solution? First, I don't know. Second, I sincerely doubt I can spot a fake merely from a picture unless it is blatant.
So my only solution to the problem is to ask for certification. If it truly is natural, there should be no problem with the vendor obtaining appropriate certification BEFORE the sale. That means independent laboratory certification, not a made-up appraisal certification.
I have asked for certification on two different occasions. Both times the GIA "reputable" vendor refused. Names provided via PM 
Pretty Panda pic by nlerner on her U.S. excursion last year, San Diego Zoo.[/SIZE][/SIZE]
Reply With Quote
.......
