Black pearls should be evaluated by more than darkness alone. Their beauty and value depend on the full combination of bodycolor, overtone, luster, surface quality, nacre quality, shape, size, treatment status, and matching.

One of the most important points is context. A fine round Tahitian strand, a richly colored Fijian pearl, a rare Sea of Cortez pearl, and a treated black pearl should not be evaluated or presented as though they belong to the same category. Each has its own source identity, market position, and value considerations.

In this section, we will apply GIA’s seven pearl value factors: size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality, and matching.

Varied pearl colors, sizes, and shapes of Tahitian Pearls