PEARL SIZE

Pearl size is expressed in millimeters, rounded to the nearest 0.5MM. Akoya cultured pearls range from 2MM to 11MM. Most common sizes are from 5MM to 8MM. A 10MM Akoya is uncommon, and an 11MM Akoya is rare.

In a strand of pearls, if individual pearls are within the .5mm range, they are considered the same size. When you see a size range like "6.5 to 7mm", it means that no pearl in the strand will be less than 6.5mm or greater than 7mm.

Generally, if other value factors are equal, the value of Akoya cultured pearls rise with their size. However, small size akoya cultured pearls can cost more than larger sizes.

The larger the size of an akoya cultured pearl, the more difficult it is to produce a pearl with high luster, nacre thickness and good surface quality.