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.