Pearl Matching

When the necklaces of pearls are graded, it is necessary to judge the complete appearance.

One must first assess how well the pearl match each other and examine to what extent the individual grading factors are true for each pearl. One sees quite often that necklaces of a generally good quality include one or more pearls of lower quality, which allows the dealer to offer the necklace at a slightly lower price.

When grading a necklace, one has to determine to what extent the individual quality factors apply to all pearls. If deviations are observed, the final evaluation will have to take them into consideration, although one should not deduct more than 25%. Imperfect matching will cut the price and should not exceed 25%.

• Excellent: Uniform or evolutionary appearance with good grading of shape, luster, inclusion, color and size. None deduction percentage. Well-centered drill hole with smooth edge;
• Very Good: A little bit of differences in shape, luster and inclusion quality factors; uniform or evolutionary appearance with good grading of color and size. 10 – 15% deduction percentage. Well-centered drill hole with smooth edge;
• Good: More than one third of all pearls show differences in quality factors, such as color, shape, luster, size and inclusion. 15 – 25% deduction percentage, the drill hole is slightly off centre and unsmooth.

The Akoya pearl matching system can be used as a guideline, but South Sea cultured pearls are generally judged more generously.