DAMPIER PENINSULA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Pearl Grading Class at Cygnet Bay — learn to judge Australian South Sea pearls in an hour (Ages 16+)
A one‑hour, hands‑on session at Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm that teaches the five virtues of pearl grading and gives a rare tactile appreciation of Australian South Sea pearls.
Pearl Grading Class at Cygnet Bay — learn to judge Australian South Sea pearls in an hour (Ages 16+).
At Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm on the Dampier Peninsula, the Pearl Grading Class is a relaxed, intimate workshop where participants handle and sort authentic Australian South Sea pearls under the guidance of gallery staff. The session peels back the curtain on how pearls are valued by focusing on the five key virtues that determine quality, offering a tactile counterpoint to the usual visitor tours.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Handle real Australian South Sea pearls
A rare opportunity to touch, feel and sort genuine pearls in an intimate grading room—an experience aimed at developing a direct, tactile understanding of gem quality.
Learn the five virtues of grading
Guided by experienced gallery staff, you’ll be taught the industry’s grading techniques and the five core characteristics used to assess a pearl’s value.
Intimate, expert‑led instruction at the farm
The tour is designed as a calm, classroom‑style add‑on to the harvest tour, with a small-group format that allows personalized guidance and the option to view and purchase finished jewellery afterwards.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
You enter the grading room, don a white lab coat and take a seat with a handful of pearls laid out before you. Over roughly an hour, an expert lead introduces the grading framework, then coaches you through hands‑on sorting and comparison—ending with a discussion on market value and an opportunity to examine finished pieces in the on‑site gallery.
THE HANDS‑ON
Handle real Australian South Sea pearls
A rare opportunity to touch, feel and sort genuine pearls in an intimate grading room—an experience aimed at developing a direct, tactile understanding of gem quality.
THE TECHNIQUE
Learn the five virtues of grading
Guided by experienced gallery staff, you’ll be taught the industry’s grading techniques and the five core characteristics used to assess a pearl’s value.
THE SETTING
Intimate, expert‑led instruction at the farm
The tour is designed as a calm, classroom‑style add‑on to the harvest tour, with a small-group format that allows personalized guidance and the option to view and purchase finished jewellery afterwards.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this session suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The Pearl Grading Class runs for one hour and departs from the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm reception; confirm exact start times when booking.
If you wear glasses, bring them so you can see fine details. Guests are encouraged (but not required) to wear white to provide contrast against the pearls.
Advance bookings are essential; contact the farm Gallery to reserve a place or ask questions about the session.
A bottle of sparkling can be added to the tour and there is an option to purchase pearls and jewellery directly from the on‑site assortment.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Pearl Grading Class?
The session lasts one hour.
Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at the Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm reception.
Is this suitable for children?
No; due to the exclusive and hands‑on nature of the experience the tour is suitable for adults and guests aged 16 and over.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes. Advance bookings are essential; please phone the farm Gallery with any questions or to reserve your place.
Can I buy pearls at the farm?
Yes. The session concludes with an option to explore the on‑site store and potentially purchase pearls or finished jewellery directly from the assortment.
Is alcohol available during the session?
A bottle of sparkling can be added to your tour so you may sip while viewing the pearls.