Our debate is what connoisseurship is all about.

And having a bead in your hands does help. Some people have recommended buying examples of known fakes for comparison purposes; this is a good idea. But I don't like having fake beads around me. Besides, a collection of fake examples could easily cost at least one thousand dollars. Ten to thirty dollars at a time can add up quickly.

I just buy what I like. And if it turns out to be honestly represented I feel lucky. Sometimes you never really know. Sometimes you can only offer your professional opinion.