Quality and value of pearls

The buying and selling of pearls has been going on for thousands of years, but there is still no commonly accepted measure.

Part of the problem is that no two pearls are alike, and a comprehensive grading system would require hundreds of quality parameters.  Some gem-quality pearls are so rare that they are beyond comparison.

The quality-value rating measure has to do with 5 basic factors, which are as follows:

• Size . Pearls are measured in millimeters. In general, the larger the  pearl, the more expensive it is. The most popular size today is between 6.5 and 8.5 millimeters. The measurement on a necklace is always made in 2 sizes, e.g. 7 - 7.5, meaning all the pearls in the necklace range from 7 to 7.5 millimeters and this is due to their uniqueness.

• Shape . The roundest, most symmetrical pearl is also the most expensive. Baroque pearls, which are asymmetrical, can be shiny and beautiful but often cost less than round ones.

• Surface . The perfect pearl should be free of any marks, protrusions, or cracks. The more marks and blemishes it has, the more its value drops.

• Color . Pearls come in a variety of colors from pink to black. Color is purely a matter of personal taste; silvery white pearls work best on fair skin tones, while cream and gold pearls work best on darker skin tones. We recommend Imperial White, a slightly pinkish shade, as the perfect color.

• Polishing . The combination of the  pearl's surface gloss and the depth of polish. High-quality pearls should be clear, dazzling, and able to reflect any object near them.