Luster, a pearl value factor, is crucial for the unique beauty of natural or cultured pearls. Luster might be the most important factor. High luster is characterized by sharp, bright reflections on the surface. Luster standards vary among different pearl varieties.
"Some Japanese saltwater cultured pearls can have an almost metallic luster due to the sharpness of the reflections." - Courtesy K. Otsuki Pearl Co., Ltd.
Baroque shapes can be more difficult to judge the quality of reflections.
Within a pearl type, when other value factors are equal, the higher the luster, the more valuable the pearl.
- Excellent – Reflections appear bright and sharp
- Very Good – Reflections appear bright and near sharp
- Good – Reflections are bright but not sharp, and slightly hazy around the edges
- Fair – Reflections are weak and blurred
- Poor – Reflections are dim and diffused
External Link:
https://www.gia.edu/pearl/buyers-guide
