What do I need to know and buy before drilling pearls for the first time?

[Kimberly Ann]

Short of investing in a pearl drilling machine, what is the best method, in terms of both thrift and quality, to use for drilling 100 or so 8- to 11-mm teardrop to round Tahitian (mostly) and Indonesian pearls? I have never drilled anything before, and I don't know what all is involved, but I am very interested and motivated to want to do it myself. (I also have a tool-wise hubby who will be able to assist me, if need be.) I don't know what kind of nuclei are in the pearls. I apologise for an inquiry that may require quite a lengthy response -- perhaps someone could recommend a certain instructional book -- but I would absolutely appreciate someone's expert guidance in getting me started!

[Zeide Erskine]

Hi Kimberly,

You may want to read this thread (http://www.pearl-guide.com/forum/showthread.php?t=214) before embarking on a process that may involve a lot of waste. Knowing your nucleus is quite important if you want to drill pearls.

Zeide