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Learn the systems used to evaluate the quality of pearls.pearls image by Kalani from Fotolia.com
Investigate the two major pearl grading systems, the AAA-A system and the A to D Tahitian system. Ask the seller to provide a written description of all grading terms so that you know the characteristics of the pearl at any given grade. - 2). Examine the pearl and find out the grade assigned to it by the seller. See if the characteristics of the assigned grade match the pearl. In the AAA-A system, AAA pearls are virtually flawless, possess a very high luster, and are free from defects on 95 percent of the surface. These pearls are perfectly round and are considered gem quality. AA pearls have a very high luster with 75 percent of the surface free from defect. Grade A, the lowest jewelry grade for pearls, is a lower luster with more than 25 percent of the surface presenting defects. For pearls that fall between two categories, terms like A+ or AA+ are used.
- 3). Stay alert for red flags in pearl grading. For the AAA-A system, AAA is the highest quality. If you are told that a pearl is AAAA or AAA+, it is time to move on to another vendor. These grades do not exist in the grading system and are simply an attempt to add value to the pearl to get a higher price.
- 4). Determine if the Tahitian system is being used. This system assigns scores on a scale of A to D, with A being the highest quality grade. This is the system employed to grade Tahitian and South Sea pearls. It roughly corresponds to the AAA-A system.
- 5). Find out the thickness of the nacre, sometimes called mother-of-pearl, in the surface of the pearl. Keep in mind that the government of French Polynesia uses a minimum thickness of .8 millimeters for Tahitian pearls. This number can be used as a guideline for other types of pearls. The thickness of the nacre determines how durable the pearl will be and contributes to its quality and grade.
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