How to Grade Pearls

There are many pearl jewelry stores on the market, and this makes it very difficult for consumers to determine if the value of a pearl jewelry piece.  Several value factors determine a pearl’s grade and it's value. Gemologists look at a combination of factors when determining the grade of a pearl piece..

§          Size.  The larger the pearl, the more rare in tends to be.  However, size is just one of the determining factors of a pearl’s value.   Pearls are measured in millimeter sizes, based on each gem’s diameter.  

§          Shape.  Pearls come in many shapes besides the traditional round. The value is determined by each shape’s standards, but a symmetrical pearl is more valuable.

§          Color.  Pearls come in a multitude of colors. Pearls are graded based on their overall color, other translucent colors, and iridescence.

§          Luster. No other gem has the inner glow, or luster, of a pearl, and it is the most important factor in determining a pearl’s worth. 

§          Surface Quality.  Because they are organic, pearls have imperfections.  The number of imperfections will affect the value.

§          Nacre.   Pearls which have more nacre are more lustrous.

§          Matching.  Pearls are not alike, so it' s important that pearls in a strand are close to the same color and shape.  

 

                  

 
                

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