Pearl Virtues

Pearl Grading Guide

Pearl grading is determined by five key factors: lustre, surface quality, shape, colour, and size. Each of these elements is carefully assessed and considered together, rather than in isolation. When combined, they are measured against a grading scale to determine the pearl’s final overall grade.

There is no universal grading system for pearls, as natural variations make each pearl unique. However, our grading system has been trusted by customers for over 30 years, giving strong confidence in the consistency, integrity, and reliability of our grading system.

Lustre

Lustre refers to the inner glow or shine of the pearl that truly brings this ocean gem to life. It varies from pearl to pearl depending on the thickness and tightness of the layers of nacre that surround the pearl.

Complexion

The complexion or skin of the pearl can vary from a clean flawless ‘A grade’ pearl, through to a ‘C grade’ pearl which may have obvious spots or pits around a large part of the surface area.

Shape

South Sea pearls are found in a variety of different shapes, which can be used in a diverse range of jewellery designs to suit differing tastes.

Pearl shapes include Round, Semi-Round, High Button, Flat Button, Oval, Drop, Circle, Baroque and Keshi.

Size

Measured in millimeters, South Sea pearls can range from 9mm to over 20mm in diameter. South Sea pearls generally range in size from 8 to 18mm, with some exceptional pieces even growing over 20mm.Larger pearls are generally more valuable.

Colour

South Sea pearls produced by the Pinctada maxima oyster range in colour from white and silver, through to cream, yellow and gold. Atlas Pearls specialise in producing traditionally the most popular white and silver colours.

Below are representations of the complexion, colour and shape grading used in our system.