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Customs Clearance of Pearls in Iran (HS Codes + Documents & Permits)
Customs clearance of pearls—among the most valuable luxury and jewelry commodities—requires accuracy and a full understanding of the applicable laws and regulations.
To estimate the time and cost of clearing pearls, get in touch with the Saba Tarkhis experts.
Instant Free Consultation1) Types of Pearls & Uses with HS Codes
Pearl is one of the most precious and alluring gemstones, long used in jewelry and luxury adornments. Pearls are broadly divided into natural and cultured, each with distinct characteristics and uses.
1. Natural Pearls
Natural pearls form spontaneously in marine mollusks without human intervention. Because formation is random, they are very rare and valuable.
Uses: Natural pearls are mainly used in luxury jewelry. Owing to their rarity and natural origin, they are typically set in high-end pieces such as premium necklaces and earrings.
HS Code: 71011000
Used for imports/exports of unworked (raw) natural pearls.
Used for imports/exports of unworked (raw) natural pearls.
2. Cultured Pearls
Cultured pearls are produced with human assistance in controlled environments. A nucleus is inserted into the mollusk, around which nacre layers grow over time. Due to mass production and quality control, they are more accessible and affordable than natural pearls.
Uses: Common in everyday jewelry—necklaces, bracelets, and earrings—thanks to more approachable pricing.
HS Code: 71012100
For unworked (raw) cultured pearls.
For unworked (raw) cultured pearls.
3. Worked (Processed) Pearls
After harvesting from the sea or farms, pearls may be polished and prepared for jewelry use, offered in various sizes and shapes with enhanced appearance.
Uses: Used in luxury jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, pins, and other fine pieces—ideal for customers seeking high quality and refined design.
HS Code: 71012200
For worked cultured pearls ready for jewelry.
For worked cultured pearls ready for jewelry.
4. Imitation (Artificial) Pearls
Imitation pearls are industrially produced using synthetic materials or artificial shells. They resemble natural or cultured pearls but are much cheaper.
Uses: Popular in fashion jewelry and decorative items, especially for mass-produced and budget-friendly pieces.
HS Code: 71179000
For jewelry and articles containing imitation pearls and other imitation gemstones.
For jewelry and articles containing imitation pearls and other imitation gemstones.
2) Special Conditions for Importing & Exporting Pearls
Given their high value and environmental sensitivity, pearl trade is controlled in many countries. Major producers—such as Japan and China—apply strict rules to cultured pearl exports, following rigorous QC processes and international standards. For natural pearls, environmental protection and sustainable extraction are tightly enforced in numerous jurisdictions.
In Iran, imports—especially from East Asia (China, Japan)—are common, primarily for domestic jewelry manufacturing and luxury adornments. Iran is a key regional market for cultured pearls, which are used both for local production and re-exports to nearby countries. Conversely, natural pearls sourced in the Middle East and the Gulf, owing to rarity and value, are exported to international markets, notably Europe and the U.S.
3) Leading Global Exporters & Importers of Pearls
Japan and China are the largest exporters of cultured pearls. Japan—renowned for premium quality, including South Sea pearls—commands a significant share of global exports. China is a major producer of affordable, quality cultured pearls for the world market. The Philippines and Indonesia are also important producers of South Sea pearls.
Natural pearls are primarily sourced from the Arabian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. Bahrain and Oman are among the key producers/exporters, with strong demand in Europe and the U.S.
The U.S., the European Union, and Middle Eastern countries are among the largest pearl importers globally, driven by robust demand for luxury products and pearl jewelry.
4) Import/Export Volumes to Iran & Global Circulation
According to recent trends, Iran’s cultured pearl imports—especially from Japan and China—are rising annually, mainly to meet domestic jewelry manufacturing demand. Estimates indicate Iran imports several million USD of cultured pearls each year, much of which feeds local production and re-exports to neighboring markets.
Globally, pearl trade is worth several billions of dollars. As a favored gemstone in luxury jewelry, pearls enjoy a vast worldwide market, with forecasts pointing to further growth alongside rising luxury demand in emerging markets.
5) Documents Required for Pearl Customs Clearance
Due to high value and trade sensitivities, pearl clearance requires precise, complete documentation prepared per customs rules to avoid delays.
1. Invoice
Shows price, type (natural or cultured), quantity, and specifications—used for valuation and duty calculations. Accuracy prevents downstream issues.
2. Packing List
Details counts, sizes, and packaging. Helps customs verify goods against the invoice; clarifies the contents of each package when multiple parcels exist.
3. Certificate of Origin
Identifies the producing/exporting country for tariff assessment and authenticity checks—commonly required for Japanese/Chinese cultured pearl shipments.
4. Certificate of Authenticity
Essential for natural and cultured pearls, confirming authenticity and quality—usually issued by the producer/exporter and matching shipment specs.
5. Environmental Permits
May be required for natural pearls to demonstrate sustainable sourcing and protection of marine ecosystems.
6. Import License
Some countries require import licenses for high-value/special goods like pearls, issued by trade/customs authorities—especially where luxury imports are tightly controlled.
7. Customs Declaration
Filed by the importer with exact details: description, quantity, value, HS code, and origin—accuracy is critical to avoid clearance delays.
8. Cargo Insurance Policy
Given value and handling sensitivity, insurance is important to cover transit risks and potential losses.
9. Release Order
Issued by customs after all legal/financial steps are completed, authorizing delivery to the importer.
1. Invoice
Shows price, type (natural or cultured), quantity, and specifications—used for valuation and duty calculations. Accuracy prevents downstream issues.
2. Packing List
Details counts, sizes, and packaging. Helps customs verify goods against the invoice; clarifies the contents of each package when multiple parcels exist.
3. Certificate of Origin
Identifies the producing/exporting country for tariff assessment and authenticity checks—commonly required for Japanese/Chinese cultured pearl shipments.
4. Certificate of Authenticity
Essential for natural and cultured pearls, confirming authenticity and quality—usually issued by the producer/exporter and matching shipment specs.
5. Environmental Permits
May be required for natural pearls to demonstrate sustainable sourcing and protection of marine ecosystems.
6. Import License
Some countries require import licenses for high-value/special goods like pearls, issued by trade/customs authorities—especially where luxury imports are tightly controlled.
7. Customs Declaration
Filed by the importer with exact details: description, quantity, value, HS code, and origin—accuracy is critical to avoid clearance delays.
8. Cargo Insurance Policy
Given value and handling sensitivity, insurance is important to cover transit risks and potential losses.
9. Release Order
Issued by customs after all legal/financial steps are completed, authorizing delivery to the importer.
| Goods | Short Description | HS Code |
|---|---|---|
| Natural pearls (raw) | Rare & luxury; unworked | 71011000 |
| Cultured pearls (raw) | Mass-produced; more economical | 71012100 |
| Worked cultured pearls | Polished and ready for jewelry | 71012200 |
| Imitation pearls (in jewelry) | Imitation/industrial; economical | 71179000 |
Exact subheading depends on presentation, grade, processing, and end use.
Need precise HS classification, permits, and document preparation? Our team manages the entire file end-to-end.
Request a ProformaFAQs
What are the HS Codes for different pearl types?
Raw natural pearls under 71011000, raw cultured pearls 71012100, worked cultured pearls 71012200, and articles with imitation pearls generally under 71179000.
What permits are required to import natural pearls?
As applicable: environmental permits to protect marine ecosystems, an import license from competent authorities, and a certificate of authenticity from the producer/exporter.
Where does Iran import most of its pearls from?
Market trend: mainly from China and Japan—for domestic jewelry manufacturing and re-exports to neighboring countries.
Media Suggestions
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- Infographic: “Checklist of documents & permits for pearl imports.”
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Summary & Call to Action
Because of high value, authenticity sensitivities, and licensing requirements, pearl clearance demands precise documentation and field experience. With regulatory know-how and a strong expert network, Saba Tarkhis keeps your process fast, compliant, and reliable.
Request Expert Consultation Get a Clearance QuotePremium Customs Services by Saba Brokerage
To simplify and accelerate pearl clearance, professional brokerage services are a smart solution. An experienced, regulation-savvy broker helps importers/exporters reduce costs and speed up clearance.
Services include:
Expert customs advisory: prepare accurate documentation and avoid clearance pitfalls.
Tariff assessment: align HS classification with pearl type (natural/cultured) and origin to optimize costs and timelines.
Customs follow-up: expedite permits and paperwork issuance for timely release.
Risk reduction: thorough document checks and optimized workflows to prevent delays.
Liaison with environmental/international bodies: obtain required permits for natural pearls where applicable.
