Each and every 18 Inch AAA strand we offer has been hand-selected in Asia by our expert buying team who select only from the top grade available. This means that although the pearls are freshwater, they boast nearly perfect shape, surface and luster. The size of the pearls in this strand range from 8.5-9.0 mm in size. This is a very important distinction when shopping for pearls. A strand of pearls that is 8.0-9.0 mm will traditionally be composed of 75% 8.0-8.5 mm pearls and 25% 8.5-9.0 mm pearls. Our strands are composed of 100% 8.5-9.0 mm pearls. Not only does this make a significant difference in value, it's a difference you can see and feel. We individually knot every pearl in this strand on silk thread and finish it with a solid, 14-karat gold clasp.