Pearl & Gemstone Guide

The Guide

Learn how pearls and gemstones are formed, evaluated, and cared for.

The Birth of Brilliance

Figure: The RTX images of the pearl’s structure

How a Pearl Forms

A pearl forms when a mollusk deposits layers of nacre around an implanted nucleus or tissue irritant. In pearl cultivation, skilled technicians carefully introduce the materials that begin this natural process, allowing layers of nacre to gradually build over time.

Nucleus The central core of the pearl, typically a small bead used to initiate the formation process.

Nacre (Mother-of-Pearl) Composed of microscopic crystalline plates; responsible for luster and depth. Thickness dictates value.

Conchiolin Layers Organic binding material that holds the nacre layers together, contributing to essential durability.

Surface The outermost visible layer; its smoothness and clarity determine the final quality grade.

The 5 Factors That Define Pearl Quality

Luster

Luster is what gives a pearl its signature beauty. Even a smaller pearl with excellent luster can be more valuable than a larger one with a dull appearance.

Surface

No pearl is perfectly flawless, but the fewer visible imperfections, the more valuable it is.

Shape

Round – Classic and highly valued

Near-round – Slight variations, often better value

Baroque – Unique, irregular shapes with artistic appeal

Size

Pearl size is typically measured in millimeters.

Larger pearls are rarer and generally more valuable, especially in varieties such as South Sea pearl. However, size alone does not determine quality—balance with other factors is essential.

Color

Pearls come in a wide range of natural colors, from white and cream to pink, silver, and even dark tones like those found in Tahitian pearl.

The Balance of Beauty

A beautiful pearl is the result of balance between all five factors. Size alone does not define quality — luster, surface, shape, and color all contribute to its character.

We evaluate our freshwater cultured pearls using criteria recognized by professional gemological education, including luster, surface quality, shape, size, and color.

For easier understanding, we use the AAA-A grading scale as a reference when describing pearl quality. This scale helps customers compare pearls, while we also consider the overall beauty and character of each piece.

AAA

Superlative

Virtually flawless to the naked eye. Features mirror-like luster with extremely sharp reflections and deep nacre thickness.

Premium

Very high luster with sharp reflections. May possess minor natural surface traits visible only upon close inspection.

Fine

Good luster with soft reflections. Noticeable natural surface characteristics that highlight the pearl's organic origin.

Pearl Care & Preservation

As organic gemstones, pearls require specific maintenance to preserve their soft glow and natural elegance over time.

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Wear with Care

Pearls should be the final touch when dressing. Avoid contact with perfumes, cosmetics, and hairsprays, as these substances can gradually dull the surface of the nacre.

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Clean Gently

After each wear, wipe your pearls with a soft, dry cloth. For deeper cleaning, use a slightly damp cloth with clean water. Never use harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.

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Store Properly

Keep pearls in a soft pouch, separate from harder gemstones that may scratch the surface. Avoid airtight containers, as pearls require a small amount of humidity to prevent drying and cracking.

Environmental Exposure

Avoid wearing pearls while swimming, bathing, or during strenuous activity. Extreme heat or dryness can weaken the nacre over time.

Professional Restringing

We recommend restringing pearl strands every 1–2 years. Silk threads can weaken with regular wear; professional care ensures security and longevity.

The Sapphire Standard

Value is dictated by Hue, Tone, and Saturation. We specialize in unheated Royal Blue and Cornflower varieties.

Certification

For colored stones, GIA, GRS, or SSEF reports are the only way to confirm thermal treatment status.