Shopping from United States? for local pricing (USD) and faster shipping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our pearls, services, and policies
About Our Pearls
We use the internationally recognized AAA-A grading system, evaluating each pearl based on five key factors:
- Luster: The intensity and sharpness of light reflection
- Surface: The smoothness and absence of blemishes
- Shape: The roundness and symmetry
- Nacre: The thickness and quality of the pearl layers
- Size: Measured in millimeters
Our AAA grade represents the top 1-2% of the annual harvest, featuring mirror-like luster and virtually flawless surfaces.
Each pearl type has unique characteristics:
- Akoya Pearls: Classic round pearls (2-10mm) with exceptional luster, primarily from Japan
- Tahitian Pearls: Exotic dark pearls (8-16mm) with peacock and silver overtones from French Polynesia
- South Sea Pearls: The largest cultured pearls (9-20mm) in white and golden hues from Australia and Philippines
- Freshwater Pearls: Versatile pearls (2-15mm) in various shapes and colors, offering exceptional value
Every Pearl Gallery purchase includes:
- Certificate of Authenticity detailing pearl type, grade, and origin
- Independent gemological certification for purchases over £1,000
- Detailed invoice with complete pearl specifications
- Lifetime authenticity guarantee
We source directly from pearl farms and trusted suppliers with decades-long relationships.
We work directly with sustainable pearl farms worldwide:
- Japan: Premium Akoya pearls from traditional farms in Mie and Ehime prefectures
- Australia: White and silver South Sea pearls from pristine northwestern waters
- Philippines: Golden South Sea pearls from Palawan
- French Polynesia: Tahitian black pearls from the Tuamotu Archipelago
- China: High-quality freshwater pearls from Zhejiang province
Care & Maintenance
Pearls are organic gems that require special care:
- Last on, first off: Put pearls on after applying cosmetics, perfume, and hairspray
- Wipe after wearing: Use a soft, damp cloth to remove oils and residue
- Store separately: Keep in a soft pouch away from other jewelry
- Avoid chemicals: Remove before swimming, exercising, or cleaning
- Restring regularly: Have necklaces restrung every 1-2 years with wear
For regular cleaning:
- Dampen a soft, lint-free cloth with lukewarm water
- Gently wipe each pearl
- Lay flat on a soft towel to dry completely
- Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam, or harsh chemicals
For deep cleaning, we recommend our professional cleaning service.
Proper storage preserves your pearls' beauty:
- Store in a fabric-lined jewelry box or soft pouch
- Keep separate from other jewelry to prevent scratching
- Avoid airtight containers - pearls need moisture
- Store necklaces flat to prevent stretching
- Keep away from direct heat and sunlight
Ordering & Shipping
We offer secure tracked and insured shipping worldwide:
- UK Shipping: Next Day via Royal Mail Special Delivery (Always Free)
- International Shipping: 1-4 working days via DHL Express (Free on orders over £250)
- Full Insurance: All shipments are fully insured until delivery
- Signature Required: All deliveries require signature for security
Track your order with real-time updates via Royal Mail or DHL tracking systems.
Once your order ships, you'll receive:
- Email confirmation with tracking number
- SMS updates on delivery status
- Access to real-time tracking through your account
For high-value orders, we provide dedicated concierge support.
Yes, we ship worldwide with:
- Full insurance coverage
- Customs documentation handled
- Duties and taxes calculated at checkout
- Express shipping via DHL or FedEx
Some restrictions may apply to certain countries.
Returns & Warranty
We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee:
- Full refund within 30 days of delivery
- Items must be unworn and in original packaging
- Free return shipping via our prepaid label
- Refunds processed within 5-7 business days
Custom and engraved items are final sale.
Every purchase includes our comprehensive warranty:
- Lifetime: Pearl authenticity guarantee
- 5 Years: Craftsmanship and setting integrity
- 1 Year: Complimentary cleaning and inspection
- 6 Months: Free restringing for necklaces
Warranty excludes normal wear, loss, or damage from misuse.
Yes, our master jewelers provide:
- Pearl replacement and matching
- Restringing with hand-knotting
- Clasp repair and replacement
- Setting repair and restoration
Free estimates provided for all repair work.
Sizing & Customization
Standard necklace lengths and where they typically fall:
- 14-16" Choker: Sits at the base of the neck
- 18" Princess: Falls at the collarbone (most popular)
- 20-24" Matinee: Falls between collarbone and bust
- 30-36" Opera: Falls at the bust or below
- 40"+ Rope: Can be doubled or worn long
We offer custom lengths at no additional charge.
Several ways to find your size:
- Request our free ring sizer
- Visit any Pearl Gallery boutique
- Use our printable sizing guide
- Measure an existing ring
We offer complimentary resizing within 30 days.
Absolutely! Our design team can create:
- Custom pearl combinations and layouts
- Unique settings and metal choices
- Personalized engravings
- Matching sets and suites
Contact us for a consultation with our designers.
Still have questions?
Our pearl experts are here to help