About pearl grading
Pearls have their own quality factors. Identification and quality assessment answer different questions, including how a pearl formed and how its appearance is described.
Seven quality factors
Size, shape, colour, lustre, surface, nacre quality and matching provide a structured way to describe pearls. Matching is particularly relevant to strands, earrings and other multi-pearl pieces.
Lustre and surface
Lustre describes the appearance of reflected light. Surface features and the quality of the nacre also matter; a pearl’s diameter alone does not describe its overall quality.
Natural, cultured and imitation
These terms describe different materials or formation processes. Appearance alone may not settle the distinction, and some questions require specialist examination.
Before requesting a report
Tell HWL whether you have a single pearl, a strand or mounted jewellery, and whether you need identification, an assessment of quality or an appraisal. Confirm the available service before submitting the item.