Size - Given two pearls of equal quality, the larger one is more valuable. Size determines price more than any other characteristic. Pearl size is controlled by two factors: the thickness of the nacre and the size of the implanted nucleus.
Luster - This is the most important quality in evaluating the beauty of a pearl. Luster refers to the glow, luminescence and shimmer you see as light passes through the pearl. The depth of the luster is closely realted to the thickness of the nacre.
Nacre Thickness - Refers to the thickness of the pearl layers. The thicker the nacre, the higher the pearl quality.
Shape - Near perfect, round cultured pearls are the rarest and most valuable. Few pearls even approach this perfection.
Color - Pearls come in a spectrum of shades, from white and cream to pink, silver and black. Pearls with pinkish-white coloring are the most desirable in the United States.
Surface - Pearls with the fewest flaws and smoothest surface are the most desirable. However, every pearl will have a few natural flaws.
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