pearl valuation assessment

The 7 Pearl Value Factors as Described by GIA
 Size - Pearl size is stated in millimeters and the value of larger pearls is typically greater than the value of smaller pearls. Larger pearls take longer to grow and are more difficult to produce in better qualities. Pearl value is based largely on the rarity of the pearl so larger pearls being more rare and difficult to produce often carry higher values.
Shape - Described as round, near-round,button, drop, oval, semi-baroque or baroque. Pearl shapes are described as they app earl and pearls that are more symmetrical often have higher values.

Color - Pearl color is described as a combination of a pearls body color and overtone.

  • body color takes into account the hue, tone, and saturation
  • Overtone is a noticeable translucent color that appears to overlie the body color

Luster - The light reflected from or near the pearls surface, elevated by the intensity or sharpness of reflection.

  • Excellent (reflections appear bright and sharp)
  • Very Good ( reflections appear bright and near sharp)
  • Good (reflections are bright but not sharp)
  • Fair (reflections are weak and blurred)
  • Poor (reflections are dim and diffused)

Surface - Blemishes or irregularities confined to the pearl's surface, taking into account the size, number, nature, location, visibility, and type of surface characteristics.

  • Clean (blemish-free or containing minute surface characteristics that are difficult to see)
  • Lightly Spotted (Only minor surface irregularities visible)
  • Moderately Spotted (Noticeable surface charactoristics)
  • Heavily Spotted (obvious surface irregularities that might affect durability)
Nacre Thickness - Average nacre thickness mesurements for bead cultured pearls are optional descriptions on GIA reports.

Matching - The uniformity of appearance in strands and multi-pearl pieces.

  • Excellent (uniform appearance and drilled on -center)
  • Very Good (very minor variations in uniformity)
  • Good (minor variations in uniformity)
  • Fair (noticeable variations in uniformity)
  • Poor (very noticeable variations in uniformity)
  • Not Applicable (for single pearl and certain intentionally mismatched items)