Trinity Pearls Grading System

There is no internationally accepted grading system for pearls, but we utilize the most commonly applied system usually applied to Akoya pearls. To simplify for our customers, we carry the grading over to the South Sea pearls as well. This system scale grades from ‘AAA’ to ‘A.’ With ‘AAA’ being gem-quality — essentially, the absolute highest-quality pearl.

AAA – A virtually perfect pearl of superior quality. The surface will exhibit a very high degree of luster – the characteristic that gives the pearl its essence and what truly separates it from other gems. A high luster is attributed to a thick nacre depth. These pearl will be almost perfectly round and have a mirror-like quality.

• AA – A high-luster pearl that is somewhat free of blemishes or defects. Still a very stunning piece.

• A – The lowest jewelry grade pearl. Usually exhibiting a chalky appearance because of thin nacre.