South sea earrings help

[kelluvpearls]

I received a pair of South sea earrings a while ago. They are graded AAA with a silver blue overtone (that's what I asked for anyway). I like them except one of the pearls has a weird texture at the back and a blemish that looks like a scratch at the front. I am wondering whether these has a good luster for AAA and whether I should exchange the one pearl because the scratch is bothering me a bit. I know I can't see it when it's on but as I open the box my eyes are drawn to the blemish.
Thank you in advance for your help.

[kelluvpearls]

[kelluvpearls]

[Caitlin]

The definition of AAA is up to 5% blemishes on the surface. I'd say that is a lot less than 5%.

Pearls grow in oysters. Nature never produces a perfect sphere as cultured pearls can, but even cultured pearls have been subjected to a natural process while the oyster lays nacre on the pearl and imperfection appear. That is like saying the Pearl is not man made, but a combination of man and oyster.

Seriously, if you want 100% blemish free, you need to state that and probably pay more. What you got looks like AAA.

[kelluvpearls]

These aren't the only pearls I own and the Tahitians I own are all smooth. I thought the jeweler would try to put the blemished side at the back of the earring, but since the texture of this pearl at the back is not smooth that wasn't possible. Since this is the highest grade the seller sells I don't know how I can pay more to get a 100% blemish free pearl. Perhaps I should find another seller.

[perlinda]

I consider the surface "texture" to be normal, as long as it's not too wide. The scratch though, I can't see it on the picture.... But if it's bothering you, try to contact the vendor for replacement.
Luster-wise, they seem to be high from the last picture. But the black background doesn't really help it... try to take picture once more with white background and indirect daylight.

Lovely earrings though, are they 10mm?

[kelluvpearls]

[QUOTE=Caitlin;92720]The definition of AAA is up to 5% blemishes on the surface. I'd say that is a lot less than 5%.

Pearls grow in oysters. Nature never produces a perfect sphere as cultured pearls can, but even cultured pearls have been subjected to a natural process while the oyster lays nacre on the pearl and imperfection appear. That is like saying the Pearl is not man made, but a combination of man and oyster.

Seriously, if you want 100% blemish free, you need to state that and probably pay more. What you got looks like AAA.[/]

Also I don't quite get why you say I want a 100% blemish free pearl. I would like one that doesn't have a scratch right at the front of the pearl, is that too much to ask for in a AAA pearl? I was going to accept that if the luster of the pearl is good. The knowledgable members of PG who have seen more pearls than I would be able to give me a better indication on the luster, hence helping me to evaluate to keep it or ask for a swap.

[jshepherd]

I agree with you. I don't see the blemish, but there shouldn't be a scratch in the front. You should have them replace that pearl.

[Caitlin]

I agree. You should return it and ask for ones with no blemish on the front. If they had sent those to me, I would not care, but I do understand you do. I think you can and should get what you want.

[kelluvpearls]

I consider the surface "texture" to be normal, as long as it's not too wide. The scratch though, I can't see it on the picture.... But if it's bothering you, try to contact the vendor for replacement.
Luster-wise, they seem to be high from the last picture. But the black background doesn't really help it... try to take picture once more with white background and indirect daylight.

Lovely earrings though, are they 10mm?

Hi perlinda

The textured component roughly runs across the back of the pearl, with diminishing texture at the bottom front of one part of the pearl. The scratch I need hold the pearl in front of me to take a picture of it and I can't do that with my iPad.

I took more photos outdoor and I hope these show the luster better. Please let me know what you think of the luster, if these aren't up to the standard that it should be I will return it and search again.

I think these are 10 to 11mm pearls, more to the 11 mm side.

Thank you for your help.

[kelluvpearls]

[GemGeek]

I can't see it, but all that matters is that it bothers you. If it means that you won't enjoy them, then send them back. Most sellers would like you to be happy with their products so you will stay a customer and give them referrals.

[kelluvpearls]

Thanks for all of your comments. Also it'll be helpful to get an idea on the luster. Return for a swap will be painful as it's an overseas purchase, but I suppose it must be done if it's bothering me after all these weeks.

Here's a photo with the scratch, the photo still doesn't show it very well but it's near the middle of the pearl. It doesn't look like a blemish, more like it's scratched.

[Caitlin]

What is that line on the bottom edge of the pearl?

[Alex]

Hi Kelluv

those are gorgeous pearls, the one on the right in the photos is particularly stunning (colour and lustre)

I don't think an AAA SSP should have a scratch at the front, especially if your eye is being drawn to it

as I understnd it, pearls should be graded before they are drilled and set, so you should be OK with earrings

Gem grade SSPs are available, but you are talking $$$

Hope you get it sorted out to your satisfaction