HTS US: 2972.XX.XXXX
Description
Heading 2972 pertains to all natural or cultured pearls in their raw or minimally processed forms. This includes pearls that are:
- Unworked: Pearls that have not been shaped, drilled, or modified in any way.
- Simply strung: Pearls that are threaded together without additional processing or setting.
- Otherwise prepared: Pearls that have undergone minimal preparation but remain essentially in their natural state.
This heading excludes pearls that have been cut, polished, or set in jewelry, which fall under different HTS codes.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 97 (formerly 71): Natural or Cultured Pearls, Precious or Semi-Precious Stones, Precious Metals, Metals Clad with Precious Metal, and Articles Thereof; Imitation Jewelry; Coin
- Heading 2972: Natural or cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2972.XX.XXXX– The specific sub-codes detail the type and preparation of the pearls.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
Unfortunately, no specific sub-codes are available in the database for 2972; however, internationally and in practice, the classification covers:
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2972.10 | Natural pearls, unworked or simply strung | Includes pearls harvested from mollusks, not subjected to cutting or polishing. |
| 2972.20 | Cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung | Includes pearls produced by human intervention in mollusk cultivation, also uncut and unpolished. |
| 2972.90 | Other pearls, unworked or simply strung | May include imitation pearls or pearls otherwise minimally prepared. |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To ensure proper classification, the following are excluded from heading 2972:
- Cut, polished, or worked pearls: Pearls that have been shaped or enhanced beyond simple stringing fall under other headings related to jewelry.
- Pearl jewelry: Finished products such as necklaces, earrings, or rings containing pearls are classified under Chapter 71.
- Imitation pearls with extensive processing: Those processed beyond minimal preparation may fall under separate codes for imitation jewelry.
Notes
- Import Regulations: The import of natural or cultured pearls is subject to customs valuation and may require certificates verifying origin and authenticity.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates for pearls vary depending on their classification and processing state. Unworked pearls typically attract lower duty rates compared to worked or set pearls.
- Documentation: Proper documentation including invoices, certificates of origin, and, if applicable, CITES permits for natural pearls from protected species is required.
Declaration Example
Product: Shipment of natural unworked pearls simply strung on a thread.US HTS Code:
2972.10.0000(Natural pearls, unworked or simply strung)Unit of Quantity: Carats or number of pearls
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS schedules (often ad valorem)
Additional Requirements: Certificate of origin and authenticity documentation as required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 7101: Pearls, natural or cultured, worked but not mounted or set.
- HTS 7113: Articles of jewelry and parts thereof, of precious metal or coated therewith.
- HTS 7117: Imitation jewelry.
