| GEM |
Specimens are without any flaws or discolouration. Specimens are adult and of typical size.
NOTE: Very few specimens fit this category and are extremely rare. |
| GEM- |
Specimens are without any discernible flaws or discolouration. Show up only under close scrutiny and not readily noticable.
Specimens are adult and of typical size. |
| FINE+++ |
Specimens that have a minor flaw, discolouration or blemish which does not detract from the look of the specimen.
Specimens are adult and of typical size.
NOTE: Most quality specimens fall into this category. |
| FINE++ |
Specimens that have noticeable flaws, discolouration or blemishes, but still have a good overall appearance and presentation.
Specimens are adult and of typical size.
NOTE: These specimens can still be aesthetically pleasing and are considerably less expensive than GEM specimens. |
| FINE+ |
Specimens that have major flaws, discolouration or blemishes including small chips.
Specimens are adult and of typical size.
NOTE: A number of rare and large species are only available in this category. |
| FINE |
Specimens that are very badly flawed, damaged, including major chips, major growthlines, major nacre missing and major nacre chipping.
Specimens are adult or obviously juvinle and of typical size.
NOTE: Again a number of rare and large species are only available in this category. |
| DEAD |
Specimens that are obviously dead.
NOTE: Again a number of rare and large species are only available in this category. |
Any shell we feel falls in between the above categories will have further description.
