SIZE
More than any other factor, size determines price. Pearl size is the result of
the size of the implanted nucleus plus the thickness of the nacre, which
grows layer by layer. A large cultured pearl is of little value if it lacks
nacre thickness since a thinly coated cultured pearl will crack and discolor.
Nacre thickness can be verified only by an expert.
SHAPE
Perfectly round cultured pearls are the rarest. While most cultured pearls
are basically round, only about 1% are perfect spheres. To check a strand,
roll it on a flat surface. The movement should be even and smooth.
COLOR
Pearls occur in a spectrum of shades. The major classifications are white,
pink, silver, cream,gold and black. Fine cultured pearls will also have
a secondary color or "overtone" (usually rose, green or blue) around
the outside of the pearl. Traditionally, cultured pearls with pinkish-white
or pinkish-silver coloring are the most highly prized. Whatever the color,
it should appear to emanate from deep within the cultured pearl.
ORIENT
A small percentage of cultured pearls display rainbow-like colors that appear
to move over the surface.
LUSTER
Luster refers to the surface shine that gives cultured pearls their glowing
beauty. Stand with your back to the light; the sharper the reflection of
light on the cultured pearl, the higher the luster.
SURFACE
Like any product of nature, all cultured pearls have imperfections. However,
a quality cultured pearl should be free of large pits or blemishes. |
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