In the pearl industry, the terms classification and grading are often used as though they mean the same thing. They are related, but they do not serve the same purpose.

Classification is a structured way of describing a pearl’s individual value factors. It looks at size, shape, color, luster, surface quality, nacre quality, and matching separately. Classification describes what the pearl shows.

For example, a pearl might be described as near-round, 8.0 to 8.5 mm, white bodycolor with rosé overtone, excellent luster, lightly spotted surface, good nacre quality, and very good matching within a strand. Each part of that description tells you something specific.

Grading takes those value factors and combines them into an overall commercial category. Grades may be expressed with terms such as A, AA, AAA, Gem, Premium, or other company-specific labels. Grading summarizes quality for inventory, pricing, or selling purposes.

The difference matters because a grade is a conclusion. Classification is the evidence behind that conclusion.

In this course, we begin with classification. We look at the pearl’s individual value factors first, then consider how those factors work together to affect quality, rarity, beauty, and value.