Every pearl.
Personally chosen.
PL3 and above, benchmarked to GUILD. Every pearl selected by hand. Every piece assembled by PERLAVELLE.
Our standard follows the whole piece, from the first loose pearl to the last connection. Each part matters, including the details that are less visible when worn.
Understand our standards
PL1–PL5
PL1 to PL5 correspond to one to five stars, with PL5 highest. Our selected grades align directly with the quality standards of our laboratory partner, GUILD Gem Laboratories. We select only PL3, PL4 and PL5—for every pearl in the piece.
- PL1Below our selection
- The lowest overall quality on our internal scale.
- PL2Below our selection
- A step above PL1, but below our selection requirements.
- PL3GUILD Superior
- PL3 = GUILD 3-star. Our selection starts here.
- PL4GUILD Magnificent
- PL4 = GUILD 4-star. A more refined selection.
- PL5GUILD Noble
- PL5 = GUILD 5-star. Our highest quality benchmark.
These correspondences define our selection benchmarks. A GUILD laboratory grade is confirmed by the report issued for the relevant pearl or piece. PL1 and PL2 are below our selection; no GUILD grade is assigned to them here. PL5 does not mean every pearl is identical or entirely free of growth characteristics.
We follow GUILD’s five quality factors: shape, luster, surface, nacre thickness and matching where applicable. We consider them together. A beautiful color cannot compensate for damage, and a larger diameter cannot replace a sound, appealing pearl.
We look for appealing reflections and consider each mark’s size, depth, visibility and position. Minor growth characteristics may be acceptable; cracks, flaking and damage that compromise condition are not.
Round, oval, drop and baroque pearls are considered within their form. We assess the outline, balance and how the pearl will sit in the intended design.
We compare bodycolor, overtones, size and luster when pairing or arranging pearls. Intentional contrast should feel considered. Every pearl must still meet PL3 or above.
We inspect the pearl’s visible condition and review relevant laboratory findings when available. Visual selection alone does not measure internal nacre thickness or establish internal structure.
Made with care
First, every pearl is selected. We consider its overall quality and suitability for the design before accepting it. Small or less prominent positions follow the same PL3 minimum.
Factories produce the required components. Settings, clasps, connectors and other parts must meet the specified material, dimensions, finish and fit.
PERLAVELLE assembles the jewelry by hand. We control which pearl goes in each position, how it is paired or arranged, and how the parts connect. Drill-hole edges, alignment, settings and attachment points receive attention as applicable.
We check the assembled piece for pearl condition, matching, alignment and finishing. We also review connection security and clasp operation where fitted. The piece must work as a whole.
An appealing pearl deserves suitable components and careful assembly. If a part or connection falls short, it must be corrected, replaced or rejected before the piece is accepted.
PL3 can still be very beautiful in daily wear. Small characteristics visible up close may be less noticeable in conversation; visibility depends on the pearl, its position and the lighting. Choosing a finer grade is a preference, not a requirement for enjoying pearls.
The report
The PERLAVELLE Pearl Grading & Identification Report records our selection assessment using the PL scale. PL3, PL4 and PL5 correspond to GUILD’s Superior, Magnificent and Noble quality benchmarks.
GUILD’s own report records the laboratory’s findings for the submitted pearl or piece. Where a GUILD report accompanies a product, check its report number, tested item and stated grade. Our PL designation does not replace that document.
The report shown here presents our document design. Product-specific results belong to the report accompanying the relevant pearl or piece.
Our requirements apply to every pearl, component and connection. We require suppliers to take responsibility for the parts they produce and to address work that does not conform. Contractual breaches or resulting losses may lead to compensation claims or legal action, subject to the relevant agreements and applicable law.
For our customers, PERLAVELLE remains the point of contact. If you have a concern about your piece, contact us so we can review it and arrange the appropriate next steps.
Explore GUILD’s five quality factors and the Superior, Magnificent and Noble grades behind our PL3–PL5 selection.
Explore Pearl Grading