I wouldn't call myself a pearl expert, but I use pearls a lot in making jewelry, buy them wholesale, and have done quite a lot of research on them. So I can safely call myself a knowledgeable layperson. Considering the price of these pearls, I wasn't really expecting much, and I was pleasantly surprised when they arrived.

First, the pearls I received really are 9mm in size (they are potato-shaped or semi-round, and measured at the widest part). See the picture I attached for reference. They are noticeably larger than the round 8mm Swarovski pearls.

They are not round, or even truly semi-round, but closer to potato-shaped, which is the most common shape for freshwater pearls. From even a slight distance, they do look round, so these are quite good in that respect.

The luster is very good, and the color is really white, although in sunlight there are charming variations which are to be expected.

There are noticeable imperfections, primarily in shape but also the occasional light ring or pock mark, very minor. Overall, these would probably be B or B+ grade. Why retailers never "grade" pearls I really don't know, because they are all graded just like gems (A+++ to F). B or B+ is really exceptional for pearls this size. I know I wouldn't have been able to buy them from my wholesaler for anywhere near this price. Also the knotting is very well done; it's extremely time-consuming and a real art form. And putting it mildly I haven't mastered the skill.

They are kind of tight and crooked at first (this is completely normal), but can be loosened up just by hanging them or (if you're like me) by wrapping them around your fingers. They will continue to hang better as time goes on.

The clasp is great, but if you don't like it, any jeweler could easily replace it. If it starts to get "loose" it's very easy to fix - just gently open up the male end with your fingers and it will fit tightly again.

Overall I'm VERY pleased with this necklace, especially for the price! People who expect perfection at this price really don't understand pearls. Truly perfect pearls are either faux or many thousands of dollars. These are much nicer than most of the pearls I've seen in department stores for hundreds of dollars. This knowledgeable layperson highly recommends them!