Understanding Pearl Grading: The Complete Guide by Northwest Pearl Design

Why Pearl Grading Matters

At Northwest Pearl Design, we believe that understanding pearl grading empowers customers to choose with confidence. Since there's no universally enforced system, we rely on time-tested standards to evaluate each pearl's quality, beauty, and value.

Key Pearl Grading Factors

  • Luster: The brightness and depth of a pearl’s shine.
  • Surface: The amount and visibility of blemishes.
  • Shape: Ranging from perfectly round to baroque.
  • Nacre Thickness: Influences both luster and durability.
  • Color: Includes both body color and overtone.
  • Size: Larger pearls are rarer and generally more valuable.

Freshwater Pearl Grading (A–AAAA)

Freshwater pearls, cultivated mainly in China, come in a wide variety of natural shapes and colors. Here's how we grade them:

Grade Surface Luster Shape Info
A 50% clean or less, heavy blemishes Poor Off Round Low quality, bottom 60% of harvest, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AA 70–80% clean Medium Off Round Mid-grade, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AAA 90% clean High Near Round to Round Top 10% of harvest
AAAA 95%+ clean Very High Round Top 1–2%, rare and exceptional

Akoya Pearl Grading (A–Hanadama)

Akoya pearls, especially from Japan, are famous for their perfect roundness and high luster.

Grade Surface Luster Nacre Shape Info
A 50% clean or less Poor Thin Off Round Low quality, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AA 70–80% clean Medium Medium Round Mid-grade, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AA+ 90% clean High Thick Perfect Round Top 5–10% of harvest
AAA 95%+ clean Very High Very Thick Perfect Round Top 1–5%
Hanadama 99%+ clean Superior Certified Very Thick Perfect Round Lab-certified elite Akoya pearls

Tahitian Pearl Grading (A–AAAA)

Tahitian pearls are valued for their natural dark colors and exotic overtones. Here's how we grade them:

Grade Surface Luster Info
A 40% or less clean, deep flaws Poor Low quality, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AA 60% clean, some deep flaws Medium Mid-grade, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AAA 80–85% clean, minor flaws only High Top 5–10% of harvest
AAAA 95%+ clean Very High Top 1–5% of harvest

White & Golden South Sea Pearl Grading (A–AAAA)

These pearls are the rarest and most valuable due to their size and thickness. Here's our grading system:

Grade Surface Luster Info
A 40% or less clean Poor Low-grade, not used in fine jewelry, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AA 60% clean, some imperfections Medium Mid-quality, Not Sold at Northwest Pearl Design
AAA 80–85% clean, minimal flaws High Used in our high-end collections
AAAA 95%+ clean, flawless surface Very High Exceptional, investment-grade quality

Conclusion

At Northwest Pearl Design, we take grading seriously. Each pearl is hand-selected and categorized using these rigorous standards to ensure our customers receive nothing but the best. Understanding pearl grading helps you appreciate what makes each piece truly unique—and truly yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

► What does AAA vs. AAAA mean in pearl grading?

AAAA-grade pearls have higher surface cleanliness, luster, and roundness than AAA. AAAA pearls represent the top 1–2% of a harvest, making them exceptionally rare and valuable.

► Is there a universal pearl grading system?

No, there is no legally enforced universal grading standard. Reputable jewelers like Northwest Pearl Design use time-tested industry benchmarks and disclose their specific grading criteria clearly.

► Do all types of pearls use the same grading scale?

No. While some freshwater and South Sea pearls use A–AAAA grading, Akoya pearls are sometimes graded A–AAA or by Hanadama certification. Each type has its own industry norm.

► Should I always choose the highest grade pearl?

Not necessarily. Choose the grade that fits your personal preference and budget. AAA pearls already offer excellent quality, while AAAA or Hanadama may appeal to collectors or for heirloom pieces.