Pearl Science Laboratory (PSL)

What is PSL certification?

Many of our selections are accompanied by certificates from the Pearl Science Laboratory (PSL) in Tokyo — one of Japan’s most respected authorities in pearl authentication and grading. A PSL certificate ensures that the pearl or strand has been professionally examined for key quality attributes such as luster, surface condition, nacre thickness, and natural color. While many of our pearls are certified by the Pearl Science Laboratory (PSL) in Japan, not all high-quality pearls require certification to prove their beauty and value.

Some of our fine pieces — especially rare Tahitian, South Sea, and select Akoya pearls — are not PSL-certified but hand-selected for their exceptional luster, surface quality, and natural color. These pearls often come from the same trusted sources as certified pieces and meet equally high standards in beauty and craftsmanship, but without going through the certification process — allowing us to offer exceptional quality at a more accessible price.

Certification can be helpful for collectors or gifts and is often reserved for select pieces or customer requests, but we believe true quality speaks for itself — with or without a certificate. We take the same meticulous care in curating every item we offer.

If you have questions about a particular piece or would like a certificate arranged, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

When is certification useful?

PSL certification can be especially helpful when:

• You are purchasing a Hanadama Akoya necklace (especially over 8mm)
• You want added peace of mind for a gift or investment piece
• You prefer verifiable, third-party documentation of quality

That said, lack of a certificate doesn’t mean lack of quality — it simply means the pearl hasn’t been submitted for certification, often because it’s part of a limited run, custom design, or smaller jewelry item (like studs or pendants).