The most important thing to understand when comparing pearl grades: Every company in the world that sells pearls uses a grading system that they themselves arbitrarily created. There is no standardized system. When pearls are purchased wholesale, a range of quality and price is always presented. Buyers determine which pearls fall into their respective grading categories. One buyer’s AAA grade can be another’s A or AA grade simply because one is selecting from a more expensive, higher range of pearl. The highest-rated pearl from one seller might not meet the minimum threshold of another seller’s lowest grade—even if the presented letter grades are identical. However, certain elements are considered when grading A-AAA
Luster – reflection bright but hazy around edges to reflection mirror like
Surface Quality – 75% blemish free to 100% blemish free
Shape – near round to perfect round
Color – Tahitians come in rage of dark colors while South Sea from optic white to honey gold
