|
Size
|
|
|
The size of the pearl depends on the variety of the pearl you choose. This is because
the size of the South Sea Pearl and the Tahitian Pearl can be bigger than Akoya.
|
|
|
|
Shape
|
|
|
Pearls can be largely categorized into three shapes- Symmetrical, Spherical and
Baroque. An example of a symmetrical pearl is an oval, while baroque pearls are
irregular in shape.
|
|
|
|
Luster
|
|
|
Pearls possess an intense shine called luster which is a combination of surface
brilliance and a deep glow. A quality pearl should be bright and lustrous. Any pearl
that appears white, dull or chalky is of an inferior quality.
|
|
|
|
Surface Grading
|
|
|
The clearer the surface of the pearl the better is its value. Check for disfiguring
spots, bumps or cracks on the surface of a pearl. Quality pearls have a sharp mirror
like reflection. Pearls with the smoothest surfaces are of the highest quality.
|
|
|
|
Nacre Quality
|
|
|
Nacre is the natural substance that the mollusk secretes to protect its sensitive
flesh from irritants such as shell fragments or implanted beads. The thicker the
nacre, the better is its quality.
|
|
|
|
Color
|
|
|
Body color is the dominant color of the pearl, while overtone refers to one or more
translucent colors that overlie the body color. For example, some pearls that appear
white will have hints of pink overtones when examined closely. The third component
of pearl color could be Orient, presence of which looks like a moving iridescence
on or just below the pearl's surface.
|