Understand the drilling term
A half-drilled pearl has a hole that does not pass all the way through the pearl. It can be used with an appropriate peg setting, leaving the attachment less visible from the front. In pearl jewellery, a photograph of an uninterrupted surface does not establish that no hole or attachment exists, and it cannot reveal the complete hidden construction.
Separate drilling from pearl identity
Half-drilled describes preparation for assembly, not whether a pearl is natural or cultured, freshwater or saltwater. Those facts belong in the material description. Likewise, a full drill hole does not establish a different pearl quality category. Keep the hole arrangement, pearl identity and finished jewellery design as separate entries when comparing pieces online.
Ask about the actual mounting
Request a side or rear view showing the setting as far as the maker can demonstrate it. A cup, peg, wire or surrounding metal can play different roles in different designs. Do not assume that a general description of one peg component explains how every finished earring has been assembled or what materials are used in an unseen join.
Treat movement as an enquiry
If a pearl begins moving unexpectedly on its mounting, stop wearing it and ask for professional advice. Avoid twisting it to check the hole or applying household adhesive. In CIELA's pearl designs, confirm the attachment and care guidance for the individual piece. Understanding the drilling term should make the question clearer without encouraging you to dismantle a setting to find the answer.
Further reading: Stuller earring-back education.
