Pearl Grading

Guide to Pearl Grading

Wondering how pearl grading works? Here is a short guide to help you understand the pearl grading system and make more informed purchase decisions.

As far as pearl grading is concerned, different companies grade and sell pearls based on a system they devised and created on their own. Every pearl grading system you encounter is unique and subjective to the specific company. Since every company’s pearl grading system is different, you should be aware of what to expect. For instance, the AA+ graded Akoya pearls can have better luster, colors, and surface compared to another company’s AAAA pearl exhibit.

Due to the non-standardized or universal grading system, you should be aware of what to expect. The French Polynesian government developed a grading system to export Tahitian pearls. Any Tahitian pearls legally imported from Tahiti go through this grading system. Depending on the kind of pearls you are considering, here is a guide to the common grading systems.

Freshwater Pearl Grading

Akoya Pearl Grading

Tahitian Pearl Grading

South Sea Pearl Grading