Pearl Size

When it comes to quality pearls, like most things, size does matter. A key factor in a pearl's value is its size, with the larger pearls generally being the more prized. What size pearl is the best? It depends on many variables. Here is all the information you need to know to make an informed decision The diameter of every pearl is measured in millimeters, varying from 2 to 20mm and rounded off to the nearest 0.5 mm. Pearls in strands are measured differently. Measurements are taken perpendicular to the drill holes and expressed in half-millimeter ranges, for example, 6 to 6.5 millimeters. A Strand labeled as a 7.5mm strand will be comprised of 7.0mm - 7.5mm pearls, with the smaller pearls being placed near the clasp. If the differential in the strand is greater then 0.5mm then the strand is considered graduated.

Factors Affecting Size:

• The size and vitality of the mollusk that produced it
• The size of the nucleus. The nucleus is the irritant, such as a bead in cultured pearls, at the heart of the pearl.
• The time that the mollusk spent underwater before the pearl was harvested.

The Importance Of Size

Cultured pearl types, which include the freshwater, South Sea, Akoya and Tahitian, usually have a specific size range. However, culturing practices are changing, and you will find more pearl sizes among the different types. Traditionally, Akoya(2.0mm - 11.0mm) and Freshwater pearls(2.0mm - 15.0mm) are smaller pearls and Tahitian or South Sea pearls are much larger(9.0mm - 20.0mm). The value of the size really depends on how unusual it is. Large Akoya cultured pearls are not large by Tahitian standards but a large one would be of higher value that a Tahitian pearl of the same size.

Tahitan and South Sea pearls lack tradition when it comes to size. Being relatively recent additions to the pearl market the general consensus is that bigger is better. On the other hand Akoya pearls and to some extent freshwater pearls are steeped in tradition, with very clear guidelines on what size of pearl is best suited for whom.

What Size Is Right?

When it comes to quality pearls, like most gems, size does matter. A key factor in a pearls value is its size, with the larger pearls generally being the more prized. You should always buy the pearl size that you like. However, Akoya pearls are steeped in tradition from the time when only the rich and royalty could afford a glorious necklace of matched pearls. If you like to buck trends, by all means do it! If you want to go with tradition, follow these guidelines:

• 5.5 mm-6 mm These small pearls are traditionally worn by girls ages 12 to 16 or very small women.
• 6.0-6.5 mm This size is the perfect gift for graduations or 16th birthdays. They are traditionally worn by young women ages 16-24.
• 6.5 mm-7.0 mm A strand of this size is considered the “starter” set for women in their mid 20s on up. It is the traditional birthday, Christmas and Valentine's Day present.
• 7.5 mm-8.0 mm This size, traditionally worn by women age 30 and up, is the strand for the upwardly mobile woman. Not too flashy, 8 mm is big enough to give an air of importance. This size is a traditional wedding or anniversary gift through the fifth year of marriage.
• 8.0 mm-8.5 mm These pearls tend to be more expensive, so they are traditionally worn by women age 35 and up, and often signify financial success.
• 8.5 mm-9.0 mm A strand of this size are perfect for women ages 35 to 45 or a woman in her early 30s of high stature. They exude class.
• 9.0 mm-9.5 mm These are very high-end pearls are traditionally worn by women in their later years. You?ll find these pearls in the jewelry boxes of wealthy women or dedicated pearl collectors.
• 9.5 mm-10.0 mm Pearls are rarely found in this size and even harder to match well, so they fetch a very high price on the jewelry market.