Introduction:

Pearls, the organic gems from the sea, have captivated us for centuries. But did you know that the size of the pearl plays a huge role in a pearl's Jewellery.

In this context the size of pearls significantly impacts 3 important factors related to the pearl jewellery you want to buy:

1. Beauty of the product
2. It's Value (price)
3. What form of jewelry do people wear? 

From tiny seed pearls to magnificent South Sea giants, the world of pearl sizes is diverse. This guide will help you understand everything you need to know about pearl sizes. After reading this blog, choosing the perfect pearls for you will be helpful!

Measuring Up: How Pearls are Sized

Unlike diamonds, which are measured in carats, pearls are measured in millimetres (mm), referring to their diameter. It might seem like a small difference, but even one millimetre can dramatically change a pearl's appearance and price.

To get an accurate measurement, jewellers use a special tool called a pearl gauge.

The use of Pearl gauge is for measurement of the size of individual pearls. Before that rough sorting of pearls into broad size categories occurs, workers use mechanical sieves. Pearl dealers use automated machines and electronic gauges for sorting to achieve greater efficiency and accuracy.

Pearl gauges, both mechanical and electronic, are used to measure the size of individual pearls. They provide high precision as needed. Even with automation, experienced pearl graders perform the final sorting and grading. 

For round pearls, you simply measure the diameter. For other shapes, like drops or baroque pearls, we often measure both the shortest and longest sides. For example, someone might describe a drop pearl as 10mm by 14mm.

Different Pearl Types and Sizes

Each type of pearl (based on origin and forms) has its own typical size range. Let's explore some of the most popular ones:

Akoya Pearls: These classic white pearls, mainly from Japan, shine with brilliant luster. They typically range from 2mm to 10mm, with 6-8mm being the most common. Pearls larger than 8mm are quite rare for Akoya Pearls.

Freshwater Pearls: These pearls come in many shapes and sizes. They range from tiny 2mm seed pearls to large 15mm or bigger.

Freshwater Disc or Coin Shaped Pearls 4mm

 

Freshwater Pearls: 4mm

 

Freshwater Pearls: 8mm

 

Freshwater Pearls: 10mm

 

 

Freshwater Pearls: 12-15mm

Tahitian Pearls: These exotic dark beauties from French Polynesia are larger, usually ranging from 8mm to 14mm. Some pearls can even reach 16mm or more!

Tahitian Pearls: 8mm to 14mm

South Sea Pearls: The "Queen of Pearls," South Sea pearls are the largest of all. They typically range from 9mm all the way up to 20mm, with an average of 12-14mm. Imagine a pearl almost the size of a grape! These are true statement pieces.

South Sea Pearl: 12 to 15mm

Seed Pearls: These tiny pearls are usually under 2mm in size.

Seed Pearls

A Pearl Size Chart, comparing different pearl types and using real-life objects for scale

Pearl size (mm) Akoya Freshwater Tahitian South Sea Mabe Seed Real-life Object 1-2           X Poppy Seed 2-3 Rare X         Small Peppercorn 3-4 X X         Tip of new Crayon 4-5 X X         Small BB pellet 5-6 X X         Green Pea 6-7 X X     X   Pencil Eraser 7-8 X X     X   Small Blueberry 8-9 X X X   X     9-10 X X X X X   Chickpea 10-11 Rare X X X X   Small Marble 11-12   X X X X   Small Grape 12-13   X X X X   Large Blueberry 13-14   X X X X   Hazelnut 14-15   X Rare X X   Cherry 15-16   X Rare X X   Small Strawberry 16-17   X Rare X X   Small Grape 17-18   X Rare X X   Large Grape 18-19   Rare Rare X X   Small Gumball 19-20   Rare Rare X X   Large Gumball 20+   Rare Rare Rare X   Larger than a Gumball

 

The Bigger, the Pricier? Size and Value

Larger pearls usually cost more, as long as other factors like luster, shape, and surface quality are the same. Larger pearls take more time to grow inside the oyster. A higher risk also exists that the oyster or pearl may not survive to maturity. Bigger pearls are simply rarer!

An 8mm Akoya pearl usually costs much more than a 6mm Akoya pearl of the same quality. Similarly, a 15mm South Sea pearl will command a much higher price than a 10mm South Sea pearl.

Some information or a few examples here to illustrate the relationship between size and price

Giving some price examples below to illustrate the relationship between pearl size and price. Actual pearl prices can vary depending on many factors, including quality, origin, lustre, surface quality, colour, and market demand.

Akoya Pearls

We make an assumption that all pearls are round and AAA grade for listing of price for comparison according to the size. Let's also assume Akoya pearls with excellent lustre, white body colour, rose overtone, and minimal blemishes:

• 6.0-6.5mm Akoya Pearl Strand: $800 - $1,500
• 7.0-7.5mm Akoya Pearl Strand: $1,500 - $3,000
• 8.0-8.5mm Akoya Pearl Strand: $3,000 - $6,000
• 9.0-9.5mm Akoya Pearl Strand: $6,000 - $12,000+ (Rare for Akoya)

Tahitian Pearls

Let's say these are all round, A-grade Tahitian pearls. They have high luster, a dark gray color, and peacock overtones. There are also minor blemishes.

• 8-9mm Tahitian Single Pearl: $300 - $600
• 10-11mm Tahitian Single Pearl: $600 - $1,200
• 12-13mm Tahitian Single Pearl: $1,000 - $2,500
• 14-15mm Tahitian Single Pearl: $2,000 - $5,000+

South Sea Pearls

Let's say these are all round, AA-grade South Sea pearls. They have exceptional to excellent shine. They are white with a silver tone and have minor blemishes.

• 9-10mm South Sea Single Pearl: $400 - $800
• 11-12mm South Sea Single Pearl: $800 - $1,600
• 13-14mm South Sea Single Pearl: $1,500 - $3,500
• 15-16mm South Sea Single Pearl: $3,000 - $7,000+
• 17-18mm South Sea Single Pearl: $6,000 - $15,000+

Freshwater Pearls

Let's assume these are all near-round, AA-grade Freshwater pearls with good luster, white body color and minor blemishes:

• 6-7mm Freshwater Pearl Strand: $50 - $150
• 8-9mm Freshwater Pearl Strand: $100 - $300
• 10-11mm Freshwater Pearl Strand: $200 - $500
• 12-13mm Freshwater Pearl Strand: $300 - $1,000

Key Takeaways from the Examples:

• Size and Price are Directly Related: As size increases, price increases, often exponentially.
• Pearl type is important. South Sea pearls are usually the most expensive. Tahitian pearls come next in price. Akoya pearls are also costly, but Freshwater pearls are the cheapest.
• Rarity Factor: Larger sizes are rarer, especially in certain pearl types (like Akoya), further driving up the price.

These examples provide a general idea of how size impacts pearl prices. Doing thorough research is always a good idea. Compare prices from different trusted vendors. Also, think about all quality factors, not just size, when buying pearls.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Choosing the Right Pearl Size

So, with all this talk about millimetres and different pearl sizes, how do you actually choose the right pearl size for you or for a gift? It’s a personal journey, and while style is key, practicalities often guide our first steps.

Here are 5 important things to think about that will lead you to the perfect fit, starting with what's often the first consideration:

• Your Budget
• Personal Style: Do you prefer delicate jewellery or bold statement pieces?
• Jewellery Type: Necklace, Earrings, Bracelets etc.
• Occasion: Remember that larger pearls come with a bigger price tag.
• Your Facial Contours & Features: 

To read in detail about these 5 points, refer to Totapari blog on 5 quick & easy ways to find the perfect pearl size for you.

Conclusion:

From dainty seed pearls to impressive South Sea giants, the world of pearl sizes is full of possibilities. Understanding how to measure pearls and how size impacts value will help you make informed decisions when you buy pearls. 

Ultimately, the perfect pearl size is the one that you love and that makes you feel beautiful and confident! 

What's your favorite pearl size? Let us know in the comments!