Pearl Quality Grades

This explains how we assess pearl quality and what designers can expect when working with us.

We put these pearl grades here for the purpose of letting you know what you will be getting. That is why you may come across terms like AAAA or AAA; they aim to serve clients.

We evaluate freshwater pearls using the following five key factors. These are the same factors experienced designers consider when sourcing pearls.

1. Luster (Primary Factor)

Luster is the most important quality factor in our evaluation.We prioritize pearls with bright, reflective surfaces and clear light return.

2. Shape

We assess the pearl's appearance visually, not just by measurement. For round pearls, this means they look round to the naked eye.

3. Surface Quality

Minor natural characteristics are acceptable, but obvious or distracting flaws are excluded from our recommended grades.

4. Consistency

We focus on consistency across a strand or batch, which is essential for jewelry production and repeat orders.

5. Color & Overtone

Color is evaluated for cleanliness, harmony, and suitability for design use.

Quality-AAAAA（Gem-Graded Pearls, High-luster baroque pearls for statement pieces）

Excellent luster-Extremely reflective, clear human figures, deep transparency, and distinct background colors.
Best shape consistency
Almost no blemish on the surface after drilling, suitable for any style

Quality -AAAA （Recommended Design Graded, Better luster selection for refined collections)

Our most popular choice for designers who need higher visual standards.

High/Strong Luster -High reflectivity, human silhouettes, good transparency
Better shape consistency
Still 2-3 blemishes after drill, suitable for most styles

Quality -AAA (Commercial grade for cost-sensitive designs)

Medium luster-Weak reflection, blurry figures.
Good shape consistency
Visible surface blemish after drill

Here is picture of 5A，4A, and 3A to help understand

pearl grade 4A

pear grade 3A

Grade names are used as general references, not absolute definitions. Actual pearls may vary slightly between batches.
For special projects or higher-grade selections, photos or videos can be provided upon request.

AAA/AA quality is for the mass market. A quality can not be for jewelry

Questions About Quality?

If you are unsure which quality level fits your design or market, we’re happy to guide you based on your specific needs.

How to Pick up Pearl from Photos?

It is stressful for buyers to pick up pearls based on photos, as it is quite difficult to assess pearl quality from photos.

The same Pearls will display different luster and different colors. It will cause misunderstandings and prevent the buyer from seeing the true situation.

Here are the same pearl batch where pics were taken in different lights.

Pics taken in LED light and Natural white LED light.