HTS US: 2977.XX.XXXX
Description
HTS Code 2977 addresses all natural or cultured pearls that have not undergone any working or processing beyond simple stringing. These pearls are typically harvested for use in jewelry, decorative arts, and as raw material for further manufacturing.
- Natural Pearls: Pearls formed naturally in mollusks without human intervention.
- Cultured Pearls: Pearls grown with human assistance by implanting nuclei into mollusks to stimulate pearl formation.
- Unworked or Simply Strung: Pearls in their raw or near-raw state, not cut, polished, or otherwise modified beyond being strung.
These products are primarily used by jewelers and manufacturers for creating finished jewelry items or decorative pieces.
Code Hierarchy
- Section VI: Products of the Chemical or Allied Industries (Chapters 28-38)
- Chapter 29: Organic Chemicals
- Heading 2977: Natural or cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung.
- US HTS Code (10-digit):
2977.XX.XXXX– Final digits specify further categorization if applicable.
Detailed Breakdown of Subheadings
No specific sub-codes are listed in the official database for 2977; however, classification generally distinguishes between natural versus cultured, and strung versus loose pearls in commercial practice.
| HS/HTS Code | Description | Examples & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2977.10 | Natural pearls, unworked or simply strung | Natural pearls harvested and presented without further processing. |
| 2977.20 | Cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung | Pearls cultivated using human intervention, unprocessed or simply strung. |
2977.20.0000 |
Cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung (full 10-digit code example) |
What is NOT Classified Here?
To avoid misclassification, note the following exclusions:
- Pearls that have been worked, cut, polished, or otherwise processed are classified under Chapter 71 (e.g., 7101 for pearls worked or set in jewelry).
- Imitation pearls or pearl-like products are classified under different headings related to artificial jewelry components.
- Synthetic pearls created entirely in laboratories are excluded and fall under other synthetic gem or bead categories.
Notes
- Import Regulations: Import of natural and cultured pearls is subject to strict documentation to verify origin and authenticity.
- Duty Rates: Duty rates vary by origin and trade agreements; some imports may qualify for reduced or zero rates under specific trade regimes.
- Valuation: Pearls are typically valued based on size, quality, origin, and processing state.
Declaration Example
Product: A shipment of cultured pearls, unworked and simply strung, from Japan.US HTS Code:
2977.20.0000(Cultured pearls, unworked or simply strung)Unit of Quantity: Carat or dozen pearls
General Duty Rate: Check current USHTS (Often duty-free or low duty under trade agreements)
Additional Requirements: Certification of origin and authenticity documentation required.
Related HTS Codes
- HTS 7101: Pearls, natural or cultured, worked or set in jewelry.
- HTS 7116: Imitation jewelry and artificial pearls.
- HTS 7102: Diamonds and other precious stones, worked or unworked.
