How to identify good quality coin pearls

[colourmad]

This really is a question for the experts on the site: how does one identify, from photos, good quality coin pearls from not so good ones? Sometimes photos will show pitting, which is probably a bad sign, it certainly detracts from the visual appeal;what else do you look for?

I was asked for an opinion on a necklace made from what I am guessing to be dyed freshwater coin pearls(will post pics tomorrow when I can get natural light), and although I had not seen coin pearls in the flesh before, I was not impressed with the quality. More specifically, the nacre seems to be very thin and the bead nucleus is easily discernible.

Looking forward to what you all have to say on the subject.

Many thanks,
Catrinel

[pearlescence]

Hi and Welcome Catrinel.
You judge coin pearls in exactly the same way as every other pearl. I'd avoid ones with thin nacre and visible beads unless it is just one dud on a decent strand.
That being said, I have some super smooth coins and, put against ones with lots of swirly nacre, I think I prefer the swirlies..the smooth as smooth ones look a bit fake or at least bland.