Our Pearl Grading Guide

There are, what seems like, endless different standards for grading systems that are used throughout the world when it comes to pearl grading. Unfortunately, there is no universal standard.Each standard varies in value factors. Here’s a little bit about our grading system so that you know exactly what you are purchasing.

QUALITY

SURFACE

LUSTRE

SHAPE

TAHITIAN AAA

AAA is the top standard quality available for Tahitian Black Pearls. This represents less than 5% of the pearl harvest.

98% blemish free

Very good to excellent

Round

TAHITIAN AA

AA Tahitian Black Pearls represents around the top 10% of the pearl harvest. These pearls usually show a luster similar to AAA grade pearls with slightly more surface blemish.

95% blemish free

Very good to excellent

Round

TAHITIAN A

A Tahitian Black Pearls represent the top 20% of the pearl harvest. These pearls exhibit great beauty with a few small blemishes

90% blemish free

Very good to excellent

Round

TAHITIAN B

B grade Tahitian Black Pearls display less luster and have more surface flaws than the higher grades. These pearls represent 30% of the total harvest.

80% blemish free

Good to very good

Round

TAHITIAN C

C grade Tahitian Black Pearls display less luster and have more surface flaws than the higher grades. These pearls represent 10% of the total harvest.

70% blemish free

Fair to good

Round

TAHITIAN B

D is a commercial grade for loose Tahitian Pearls which are not exported from Tahiti. This grade represents over 25% of the pearl harvest.

60% blemish free

Fair

Round

For reasons such as these, it's extremely important when purchasing pearls to be absolutely certain of the meaning of any descriptive terms used by the seller. If possible, ask for an Authenticity Card. Reputable Jewellers will be happy to comply with such a request. Only in this way will you be able to determine if the price the seller is asking is reasonable.