Compass Point Brooch
Compass Point Brooch Sterling Silver
Pearl Grades Explained
Pāua pearls are graded on lustre, surface, and colour saturation. No two pearls are identical, grade reflects character, not worth.
A Grade
Exceptional lustre with a mirror-like surface and very few imperfections. Deep, even colour saturation throughout. Our finest.
B1 Grade
Very good to excellent lustre with minor surface imperfections. Strong colour saturation, a beautiful everyday pearl.
B2 Grade
Very good lustre with moderate surface markings, which may include conchiolin lines, the natural growth rings visible on pāua and abalone shell. Colour can be multicoloured and vivid.
C1 Grade
Our most popular grade. Good lustre with more visible surface character and rich colour. Loved for its warmth and individuality.
C2 Grade
Fair lustre with heavier surface markings, including conchiolin deposits. Each pearl is distinctly its own.
C3 Grade
Our most characterful grade. Lustre is soft and surface markings are pronounced, you can often feel the texture by touch. Deep, complex colour.
A Note on Colour
Blue Pearls
The rarest and most valuable. Prized for their deep, oceanic hue.
Orient Pearls
Carry two or more colour overtones, shifting in the light.
Regular Pearls
Show one or two colours, classic and consistent.
Nacre Pearls
Thicker pearls used in rings and bracelets.
Conchiolin Lines
The natural boundary between two layers of nacre, visible as dark markings on the pearl's surface. A sign of the pearl's growth, not a flaw.
Wearability: Gems and mineral hardness, their resistance to scratching and abrasions is measured on the Moh's scale from 1 to 10. Like other pearls, Abalone Paua Mabe pearls require care because they can be scratched or abraded, as they have a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Moh's scale. Therefore, it is crucial to know that popular gemstones with higher hardness like diamonds, sapphires or emeralds can be susceptible to fractures and damage if worn without consideration. However, some people may be surprised to discover that a high hardness on the Moh's scale does not mean that these gemstones are indestructible. Therefore, we always recommend taking care of precious pieces of jewellery.
Pearl stability: Industry experts have estimated that a range between 85 to 95% of the global pearl production may be subject to a specific type of treatment, so it is better to stay away from dyed, impregnated, or coated pearls, as these treatments might alter their appearance or stability over time.
No treatments: Arapawa Blue Pearls are proud to disclose we do not treat our cultured Abalone blister pearls. So, you can enjoy the stability of your Paua pearl engagement ring. We would love to hear about your ideal proposal and dream engagement ring design. If you would like a cultured mabe pearl with no treatments, a certified and sustainable New Zealand origin, and set in a piece of jewellery made locally, we are ready for you! Learn more
The Pearl Farm Tour
A 90-minute guided walk through the only pāua pearl farm in New Zealand. You'll see the growing tanks, watch a live pearl grading demonstration, and browse pieces straight from the farm collection.
Rated 5.0 stars across 180+ visits.
Getting Here
Arapaoa Island is reached by water or air, both are part of the experience.
- By water taxi: Beachcomber Cruises depart from Picton, approximately 45 minutes through the Sounds. Our exclusive transport partner. beachcombercruises.co.nz
- By helicopter: Helicopters Nelson depart from Nelson Airport, approximately 20 minutes with views across the top of the South Island. helicoptersnelson.co.nz
- By ferry: Sail the Interislander or Bluebridge to Picton, then connect with Beachcomber Cruises.
- Private boat: Moorings are available. Please contact us in advance.
- One of a Kind
- FREE Shipping Worldwide, purchases $1,799 and over