Tea grading systems lack standardisation across major tea-producing countries. Generally, grades are determined by leaf size and the leaf's position on the tea bush. Tea factories primarily use these classifications to separate teas during manufacturing. However, the lack of a universally defined, standardised grading system means tea grades are not a reliable indicator of overall quality. Furthermore, grading terminology varies significantly among green, black, and oolong teas, so these terms need clarification within their respective contexts. A tea grade does not inherently reflect its flavour or quality. Each tea's unique flavour profile is influenced by a range of factors, including origin, soil composition, rainfall, elevation, the specific “flush” or picking season, and the methods used in harvesting and manufacturing.

D–Dust
The smallest of particles left after sifting. Often used in tea bags to infuse quickly and produce a strong, robust brew.

F–Fanning
Very small, broken leaf, slightly larger than dust.

S–Souchong
The largest leaves are located closest to the bottom of the branch. These coarse leaves are twisted lengthwise and often used for various Chinese smoked teas.

P or PEK – Pekoe
Pekoe grade tea leaves are slightly less coarse and smaller than souchong

OP – Orange Pekoe
Orange Pekoe grades are leaves plucked from near the end of a branch. Besides the buds and flowers, they are the youngest and smallest of tea leaves on a branch.

BOP – Broken Orange Pekoe
The leaves in broken grades of orange pekoe tea are reduced in size, usually by machine. This creates more surface area, so it infuses faster than whole-leaf tea.

FOP – Flowery Orange Pekoe
This orange pekoe grade also includes some “tips” or leaf buds.

FBOP – Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe
This grade of tea refers to broken orange pekoe with a small portion of “tips.”

GFOP – Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe
Often referred to as flowery orange pekoe with “tips” and golden-coloured flowers.

TGFOP – Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe
This classification includes a larger ratio of golden tips.

FTGFOP – Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe
Teas falling into this classification are usually a premier estate’s finest teas. Mostly comprised of golden flowers, leaf buds, and the youngest tea leaves.