As there is no official grading scale for the pearl industry, it is very easy for vendors to start adding + and ++ to their grading systems, and it is also very easy for customers to believe they're getting a superior product, when in fact, that is nowhere near the case.

Having an actual person on the other end of the phone describing the piece in detail helps; you can pick up on alot by listening to the hesitation in their voice when trying to be objective about their product. If there's nothing to hide, then the sales person will be very free and easy with you, and answer any question you might have.

Good Luck!