Cultured Pearl Luster

Luster is what makes pearls unique, so it is often the key factor to determining a pearl's worth. No other gemstone reflects light the same way as a pearl. The amount of luster a pearl has depends upon how each layer of nacre developed and the nacre's translucence

Pearls with less luster are much less valuable than ones that have spectacular sheen. Most pearls with poor luster never make it to the gem market. They are used in products for the cosmetic or pharmaceutical industries.

So Shiny You Can See Yourself

A high-luster pearl will be so shiny that you will be able to see objects in it, like a spoon. A pearl with poor luster will reflect images poorly or not at all and will look dull. The pearl farming industry continues to make strides to increase luster in pearls.

The Winner In The Luster Category

Akoya pearls are considered the finest when it comes to luster. They almost always beat even their most fine competitors. The theory behind why Akoya pearls consistently have such beautiful luster is water temperature. The water in Japan and China is cooler, and pearl experts believe that cold water causes the nacre plates to take longer to develop, which increases the chances of excellent luster.

Although Akoya pearls reign when it comes to a glass-like finish, some people prefer the more satin-like luster of South Sea pearls. This softer look is often just as beautiful.

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