Pearl Grading | Surface Quality

Pearl Grading System

Pearl grading is very similar to the 4C's of diamond grading in that it takes into consideration several categories of qualitative comparisons. The pearl grading system consists of five main parts. They are:

• 1. Luster
• 2. Shape
• 3. Color
• 4. Surface
• 5. Size

4. Pearl Surface Quality

Surface blemishes play an important role in the valuation of pearls. Generally speaking, the fewer surface blemishes a pearl has, the more valuable it is. The term "Blemishes" refers to any bumps, marks, imperfections or small indentations. These characteristics give each strand a unique "fingerprint" of identifying factors.

To find pearls without blemishes is rare and their price is likely to be astronomical, given other quality factors being high. One has to remember, pearls are organically grown and just like the human body, no two are exactly alike.

Small blemishes on pearls are somewhat inevitable, however, any serious damage such as cracks or chips in the nacre are to be avoided as these conditions will affect the longevity of the pearl as well as the value. When assessing pearls, look at each pearl individually to judge its surface quality.