Pearls – Understanding the main factors influencing quality and value. Choosing the right pearl for yourself or a loved one can seem daunting, however, once you know the basics of this magnificent gem it will become much easier. The large variation in prices, which once would have been a source of confusion, will actually become an advantage by giving you so many options. Whether you are looking for something for easy everyday wear, or that one truly rare find, you should be able to find something to match your budget.
Freshwater vs Saltwater – The first thing to establish when looking at genuine cultured pearls! Freshwater pearls are grown in molluscs in freshwater rivers, lakes and ponds all over the world. They are more abundant than Saltwater Pearls, which tend to come from more region-specific Oyster species. Excellent quality can be found in Freshwater pearls, however, because the supply is
not as restricted as it is with Saltwater pearls, the price point will usually be lower.
The South Sea Pearl (Pinctada Maxima Oyster) is one of the most valued Saltwater varieties. This is because you only get 1 pearl per Oyster, the pearl can be found in large rarer sizes and display exceptional quality.
Does the Pearl have any treatments?
Some pearls on the market may have been colour treated/enhanced to make them look a higher quality than what they naturally are. Of course, a pearl that has no treatments to look as good as it does will be much more valuable than an artificially enhanced variety. (Needless to say, all the pearls we supply will have no colour treatments).
How to assess quality?
Just like we use the 4c’s to grade diamonds, the are 5 factors by which we assess pearls to determine their value. These criteria apply to all varieties of pearls and include:
Lustre – This describes the surface appearance in reflected light. Essentially this is what gives the pearl life as it is what makes them glow against the skin. A poor lustre will be dull, whereas a high quality lustre will display more of a mirror finish.
Size – The larger the pearl, the rarer and more valuable it will be – particularly if the pearl is very large and still displaying high quality.
Shape – Perfectly round pearls are generally the most valued. Baroque shapes, although on the opposite end of the spectrum, are very unique and also often sought after. The lesser valued shapes tend to be referred to as potato and rice shapes.
Surface – A few markings on the skin of the pearl are expected (remember it is an organic gem), however, heavy markings will lower the value of the pearl. Please note if the pearl has no markings at all, this may be a signal it is not genuine, so be confident in who you are purchasing from.
Colour – The colour of the pearl you prefer is very personal and depends on what you feel works best with your skin tone. As mentioned already – colours that are not enhanced are far more valuable. Peacock green colour in Tahitian pearls and the golden colour in South Sea pearls are 2 of the rarest and most valued colour varieties available.
All of these factors contribute towards quality and value, but the importance you place on each factor is entirely up to you. For example, with a set budget in mind – some people may prefer a larger pearl with more surface markings, whereas others (for the same price) may prefer a smaller pearl with more of a flawless surface. Often a good balance between all factors represents one of
the most desirable options.
If you are looking for something in particular or would like to discuss your requirements in more detail, then feel free to contact us!