QUALITY CRITERIA FOR PEARLS
The quality and thus the value of a pearl result from the complex interplay of several factors. Weighing them up and harmonising them requires a great deal of experience. This interplay also shows how difficult it is to create a balanced and convincing piece of Gellner jewellery from thousands of pearls.
Lustre
Lustre refers to both the lustre of the pearl surface and the reflection of light.
In general:
The more intense the lustre of a pearl, the more valuable it is.
1
Spot level
Small irregularities and depressions in the pearl surface are referred to as spots. The spot level
provides information about the purity and structure of the surface.
The general rule is:
The lower the spot level, the more rare and valuable the pearl.
2
Form
The shape of cultured pearls reflects nature in all its facets. Nevertheless, there are value-determining
preferences.
Generally speaking:
The most popular shapes include the round pearl and the symmetrical drop-shaped pearl. Perfect pearls are extremely rare and therefore particularly valuable.
3
Colour
The variety of colours is limitless.
Generally speaking:
The pearl colour is as individual as the personality of the person wearing it.
4
Size
Size is usually the main category for the value of a cultured pearl.
In general: The larger, the more valuable.
5