Pearl Value Factors

Before trying to evaluate a pearl, you should know what type of pearls it is. Each type has its own characteristics due to the specific forming condition. We normally classify pearls by origin, then grade them within the types they subjected to by luster, nacre thickness, surface quality, size, color and shape.

If you try to compare the luster of a South Sea pearl and an Akoya Pearl, it is possible that you will get disappointed on the former. Because Akoya pearls are very famous for their outstanding brilliance, while South Sea pearls are much bigger than Akoya pearls.

The pearl grading factors are normally not considered equal. Some factors will be weighted to give the more influence in arriving at a final grade. Grading is relative to the best attainable quality for a certain type

Luster and Nacre more...

Pearl luster - the brilliancy and the soul of pearls. This chief evaluating factor separates the inferior pearls from superior and the ordinary from the extraordinary.


Nacre - you may not directly see how the pearl nacre affects the beauty and value of pearls. But it dose! A very thin nacre thickness would reduce pearl luster, color evenness and durability and could never make a fine quality pearl. Freshwater pearls have a very thick pearl nacre. Akoya pearls nacre are the thinnest among all types of pearls.

Surface Quality More...

Making perfection is obviously not the goal of the Mother Nature. Surface imperfections are part of pearls natural texture and proof of the pearl genuineness. Even though a pearl is considered more valuable when the surface imperfections are minimal, we should positively consider them more than negative when evaluating pearls.

Color More...

come in a wide variety of colors, ranging from white all the way to black. The natural color of pearls results from a combination of body color, overtone and iridensence. The wearer's preference determines what color is the best for him/her. Fashion trends and color demand affects different color pearl price. But it is still important to find a color that is rich and evenly distributed on the pearl.

Shape More...

Prices go down the line of different shapes. Perfectly round pearls are rarest and most valued. Symmetrical pearls are more valuable than baroque. However, baroque pearls, with their various shapes, can inspire talented jewelers or artists and be created into some amazing arts.

Types More...

Knowing pearl types is the precondition of evaluating pearls. Each type of pearls has its own characteristics and valued standards. Among different types of pearls, saltwater pearls are more valuable than freshwater pearls. Natural pearls cost more than cultured pearls.

Treatment More...

Most of pearls we see are treated more or less. Pearl treatment is a must process before these beautiful gemstones are put on market. There are many methods to treat pearl including polish, bleaching, dyeing, filling, irradiation, coating and oiling...Treated pearl doesn't means low quality. People use a exquisite craft to make pearls perfect. That is much more like that a diamond can be call a diamond only after it is cut according to the rock's characteristics.

Size More...

The larger the size, the higher the price. But price jumps between pearl sizes are often uneven. Large pearls are more difficult to cultivate because of the large size of the implanted nucleus. There is an increased likelihood that the oyster will reject the nucleus.