Pearls Pearls are consistently featured in the fashion news and ads in magazines such as Vogue and Town & Country. Given their popularity, it is surprising to know that on average, pearl sales account for single digit percentage of jewelry sales in the US. However, pearls are a very high profit margin item. But without a universal grading system there is no basis for comparison. Luster Luster is the glow of the pearl and its brilliance to the human eye. The longer the pearl is left in the oyster to grow its nacre casing, the higher the luster. You should be able to see your own reflection clearly on the surface of a pearl. Any pearl that appears too white, dull or chalky, indicates low quality.

Surface condition The fewer the natural markings or spots on the pearl's visible surface, the more expensive the pearl. Shape The more spherical (rounder) and symmetrical the pearl the more valuable it will be. Baroque pearls (any unusually shaped and asymmetrical pearl) can be very attractive and are usually less expensive than round pearls. Color Pearls are available in a rainbow of colors, for example, pinkish (often called rose), silvery white, greenish white, creamy, golden, gray, cognac and black. Color enhancement is considered the norm for both colored and white base pearls. Color consistency effects value; however, current fashion trends and color demand conditions also effect pearl prices. Cultured pearls come in a variety of colors from rosé to black. While the color of a pearl is really a matter of the wearer's preference, usually rosé or silver/white pearls tend to look best on fair skins while cream and gold toned pearls are flattering to darker complexions. The most popular color is white, but it does not mean that it is the "best" color. It is ultimately the customer's choice, but you might want to consider how well the color will go with your complexion. Size Pearl diameter is measured in millimeters. Generally, the larger the pearl, the more rare it is and the more valuable. The larger the pearl, the more valuable it will be. 7 and 7 ½ mm are the most popular sizes (cultured pearls are measured in mm). Matching For pearl necklaces the overall look is very important, regardless of the quality of the individual pearls. The more uniform and aesthetically pleasing two or more pearls look together the more time was spent matching the pearls. This time to match pearls is reflected in the cost. Rarity Because pearls are not cut or polished when removed from the oyster or mussel, certain sizes, qualities and colors may from time to time be in scarce supply. Overall health of pearl growing oysters and mussels effect pearl size and quality availability.