The quality of pearl is recognized by its grading system which can be AAA, AA+, AA and A. However, besides that you can determine the quality based on other factors too.
The following factors can decide the quality of pearl used in your pearl necklace.
Type of pearl
The very first thing that you need to see is the type of pearl used which could be any of the following:
- Akoya
- Freshwater
- South sea
- Tahitian
Each of these pearls has their individual property and produced in different regions.
Pearl nacre
When mollusk secrets in order to protect their flesh from irritants; a beautiful iridescent material is formed within the mollusk shells. They become nacre which is also known as mother of pearl.
The thickness of nacre determines the quality of pearl.
Pearl luster
Pearl luster can be measured by the quality and quantity of light which is reflected from the pearl surface. Any good quality pearl will reflect sharp and bright light.
A dull or chalky pearl will be considered as poor quality.
Pearl surface
If the surface of the pearl is cleaner, it is considered to be of better quality. Look for any cracks, spots or bump on the surface of the pearl. The best quality pearl will have sharp and shining surface where you can get mirror like reflection.
Pearl shape
The pearl will be perfectly round in shape which is very rare to find. Baroque pearls are usually not very symmetrical in shape and will not be considered as high quality however appealing and lustrous it may be.
Pearl color
Pearls are available in a variety of colors however color is a matter of choice of the individual.
Pearl size
Quality and value of pearl can also be decided based on the size of the pearl. Size is generally measured in millimeters.
Pearl diameter starts from 1 mm and can go up to 20 mm too. However, the average size of the pearls generally in circulation is in the range of 6.5 to 7 mm.
