Pearl Quality

Pearls are graded similarly to other gemstones with characteristics that define the quality.

1. Luster - is one of its most important attributes, and the highest determining factor in grading and valuation after its regional origin. To explain it simply, luster refers to how "shiny" or "dull" a pearl is. The shinier the more valuable the pearl is.

2. Shape - Shape is one of the principle determining factors in a pearl's value after luster. With all other factors being equal, the general rule is that the rounder the pearl, the more valuable it is. Pearls come in a wide variety of shapes, each having a specific designation.

3. Color Grading - Pearls come in a wide range of natural colors and shades, but some pearls are dyed to make the desirable color. Naturally occurring pearl colors include traditional white as well as fancy silver, cream, pink, lilac, silver and gold hues. Other exotic natural colors include black and greenish-black Tahitian Pearls.

4. Surface Quality - Surface blemishes, or the lack thereof, play an important role in the valuation. Generally speaking, the fewer surface blemishes a pearl has, the more valuable it is. The term "blemishes" refers to any visible bumps, marks, imperfections or small indentations on the surface. These blemishes give each a unique identifying factors. Pearls without blemishes are rare. Blemishes in and of themselves should not be an excluding factor in valuation, yet due to blemishes, each pearl is unique. Looking at a pair or strand of pearls, check to see if the blemishes are consistent throughout the piece of jewelry to help with the valuation.

5. Size - Typically, the larger the size, the greater its value. An average-sized pearl can take several years to develop. Significantly larger ones can take twice as long to grow. Additionally, it is very difficult to maintain a perfectly spherical shape while it develops. This is why very large round ones are extremely rare and valuable. The most common size range is from 7 to 8 millimeters in diameter. Each of the main types it has a common range of sizes:

Freshwater -- typically range from 3mm up to 12mm

South Sea or Tahitian -- range from 8mm up to 18mm or Freshwater pearls have an allowable size variance of a full millimeter per strand.

This should give you an idea of what to look for when you are deciding which pearl necklace, jewelry, pearl site, pearl earrings, or pearl bracelet to purchase.