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Pearl Grading System (AAA-A)
Pearls vary in nacre or thickness, iridescent shine, surface area, matching, size and shape. The quality or the value of the pearl is measured by a combination of these factors.
Nacre is the substance that oysters and mollusks secrete to form the inside of their shells. This same nacre secretes around the pearl centre and builds up layers of deposits. The thicker the layers, the higher it is on the grading system.
Iridescence or Lustre refers to the brilliant shine on the surface of the pearl. The nacre deposit, in essence, partially is responsible for the lustre of the pearl. The greater the shine, the more valuable it is.
Surface area is an important determination to the desirability and value of the pearl. Inclusions such as minor bumps, scratches, cracks or abrasions hinder the lustre of the pearl and thus the value of the pearl. Keep in mind that pearls are a natural phenomenon; minute flaws do exist on any pearl but often unnoticeable.
Matching means how each pearl, like a necklace, is paired up with other similar and cohesive pearls, taking into consideration colour, size, lustre, and shape. As pearls are natural substances, no two pearls are identical and therefore will inevitably vary slightly in all these qualities.
Size, the larger the pearl the more it adds to its value. Pearl size is measured in millimeters (mm), according to its diameter. A popular size for Akoya pearls is 7-7.5 mm.
Shape of pearls varies due to their nature of being a natural organic substance. Some are round, near round, oval, baroque, drop or button. The most sought after pearls are round or near round.
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