How to Evaluate Black Pearls

January 18, 2019 0 Comments

Black, or Tahitian pearls, are some of the most beautiful gems on this planet. They carry a unique color that cannot be found naturally in any other pearl hence making them one of the most valuable pearls on Earth.

Tahitian pearls come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Therefore there are a few factors to keep in mind when evaluating black pearl gems. Here we’ll teach you how to evaluate a black pearl thoroughly, without the help of a professional.

Color is Everything

With black pearl value, color is everything. The deeper the concentration of color the higher the value of the pearl. For example, a light grey Black pearl will be less valuable than a deep black or deep saturation in color for Tahitian pearls. The richer the colors the higher the price tag.  

Contrary to popular belief, black pearls come in a variety of colors. There are peacock Black pearls which carry gold, green, and purple hues. The richest peacock Black pearls are highly coveted in the industry. There are even blue-green Black pearls. For every color of Black pearl, the higher the concentration of colors, the higher the value. You can check out our Tahitian black pearl color chart.

Pay Close Attention to Luster

As with any pearl, you’ll want to pay close attention to the luster of Black pearls during evaluation. Luster is traditionally known as one of the highest weighing factors when deciding on a black pearl value. The most valuable Black pearls carry excellent luster with a mirror-like reflection. Pearls of this kind are the highest value you will find.

Size, Shape, & Surface Quality    

Most Black pearls range in sizes of 8mm to 14mm. Size is a huge factor to keep in mind when evaluating Tahitian pearls. If you happen to come by a Black pearl that is around 14mm, this pearl is extremely high in value.

Shape is also a significant factor to remember. Black pearls aren’t generally perfectly round. Actually, only 20% of any Tahitian cultured pearls are naturally perfectly round, meaning that spherical Tahitian pearls are extremely high in value.

Lastly, surface quality varies in Black pearls. The surface quality of Black pearls can range from a few surface blemishes to completely spotless. But as with any pearl, the fewer blemishes the higher the value.

Finding High-Value Black Pearl Gems

At Kyllonen Luxury, we pride ourselves on providing our consumers with Gem grade Black pearls. Gem grade Black pearls contain the richest colors, the most perfect surface quality, exquisitely round shape, excellent luster, and the largest size.


Kyllonen Luxury is your source for extremely valuable Black pearl jewelry made with the finest 18K gold. Check out our selection of black pearl gems and black pearl jewelry today!