Pearl Graduate

 Module 1: History, Origin & Pearl Formation 

• History of pearls, natural pearls and their significance in jewellery heritage and luxury trade

• Pearl formation, growth structures and biological development inside mollusks

• Evolution from natural pearls to cultured pearls and global pearl trade relevance

Module 2: Pearl Types, Varieties & Classification 

• Pearl classification: natural pearls, cultured pearls and imitation pearls

• Cultured pearl types and sources: Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian & Freshwater pearls

• Pearl varieties based on origin, water type, mollusk species and structure

Module 3: Pearl Identification & Natural vs Cultured Evaluation 

• Identification of all types of pearls and pearl imitations used in jewellery

• Differences between natural and cultured pearls using gemological methods

• Sorting and evaluating pearls by colour, shape, origin and surface characteristics

Module 4: Pearl Grading & IIG’s 9 Pearl Quality Factors 

• Size: Measurement impact on rarity, pricing and jewellery application 

• Shape: Round, near-round, oval and baroque forms affecting value 

• Color: Body colour, overtone and orient influencing visual appeal 

• Type: Natural or cultured classification defining market positioning 

• Luster: Sharpness, brightness and mirror-like reflection quality 

• Surface Quality: Blemishes, spots and growth marks assessment 

• Nacre: Thickness and quality determining durability and longevity 

• Treatment: Detection of enhancements affecting disclosure and trust 

• Matching: Uniformity in size, colour and luster for strands and sets 

Module 5: Pearl Treatments, Identification Practicals & Hands-On Training 

• Recognition of common pearl treatments such as bleaching, dyeing, polishing and coating

• Practical identification techniques for treated, untreated and imitation pearls

• Hands-on training using visual examination, basic testing procedures and professional gemology tools

Module 6: Pearl Culturing, Markets, Jewellery & Care 

• Pearl culturing process, pearl farming methods and marketing flow

• World map of pearl farming regions, global pearl markets and trading hubs

• Caring for pearls and pearl jewellery maintenance best practices

• World’s most expensive pearl jewellery and iconic pearl creations