Up to Grade

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How do wholesalers grade pearls?

Up to Grade

You probably know wholesalers grade diamonds by color, clarity, and size. However, there's no grading like that for pearls. In fact, many sellers (and buyers) make up their own grading systems. You can do the same thing once you discover your own preferences for pearl color, luster, and size. Ask if your dealer keeps a "master strand" of pearls that shows the different qualities of pearls from good to excellent. This can help you see even minute differences in color, sheen, and shape of the different pearls. Assigning grades in your own mind can help you design affordable pearl jewelry that is both beautiful and cost effective. For example, you could use larger, higher quality pearls in the front center of the pearl necklace, graduating to smaller, lesser quality pearls in the back near the clasp where they will not be as noticeable.

   

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