7018.10.10.00 - Imitation pearls and imitation pearl beads of all shapes and colors, drilled or not drilled, but not strung (except temporarily) and not set

This HTS category, 7018.10.10.00, specifically addresses imitation pearls and imitation pearl beads. These items are characterized by their resemblance to natural pearls but are manufactured from glass. The classification applies regardless of their shape or color, and whether they are drilled (prepared for stringing or assembly) or not. Crucially, this code covers these imitation pearls and beads only when they are not strung (except for temporary arrangements for presentation or handling) and not set into jewelry or other articles.

It is important to distinguish this subcategory from its siblings. While 7018.10.20.00 covers imitation precious or semiprecious stones (excluding imitation beads of these stones), and 7018.10.50.00 is a residual category for "Other" glass smallwares, 7018.10.10.00 is exclusively for imitation pearls and their bead forms. This means items that are not pearlescent in appearance, even if they are glass beads, would fall under different headings.

As a leaf node, this category does not have further subdivisions. Classification within 7018.10.10.00 is determined by the material (glass), the specific form (imitation pearl or imitation pearl bead), and the absence of permanent stringing or setting. The intent is to classify the individual components or loosely grouped items before they are incorporated into finished goods like jewelry.