[Lynn]

I have inherited a 20" graduated strand of 3.5-7mm Mikimoto pearls. They need to be restrung, and the sterling clasp with a pearl on top was bent, so my local jewelry store sent them to Mikimoto in NY for a repair estimate. M. said that they can repair the clasp and restring them or replace the silver clasp with a 14k gold clasp and restring them for about $183. Of course they keep the sterling clasp. I don't have the certificiate or an estimate of the value of the pearls, but know they were purchased in Japan because of the box.
My questions are (1) Will replacing the clasp raise or lower the value of the pearls, and (2) Is it wise to get Mikimoto to appraise or certify the pearls since they currently have them? Are their appraisals inflated or reliable?

[Casey.R]

I'm no expert, but I do love and own a few older pieces of jewelry, and I think if they are vintage or antique then they will be worth more with the original clasp. Plus being a lover of old things I'd bet it's probably prettier and more unique.

[gemanuelli]

Have an Original Mikimoto pearl necklace. It is 16" long with white gold clamp ("M"), pearl size from 8.0-8.5 mm. What I don't know, can't find is grading certificate, thus interested in having it appraised for later Sale.

It was an inheritance from my Grandmother, and based on pictures and family interviews we estimate be 30yrs. since purchased aprox.

It has original Embroidered "Silk" casing.

I live in Broward Cty.-FL and searching for appraisal and or info. re-sale value, options of same one.

Other pearl earings were also included, 18k yellow gold with Turquise stones and pearl in ctr.?

Any advice-recommendations as to re-sale info. appreciated.

Gabriel Emanuelli
gemanuelli@gmail.com

[Lynn]

Just in case someone is thinking about what it might cost, I just sent a string of pearls from the 50's to Mikimoto in NY for certification, restringing, and to repair the damaged sterling clasp. They gave me a quote of about $140 to replace the clasp with 14k gold and to restring. Not sure if that covered the cost of the little "M". I chose to have the older clasp repaired and restrung for $57. They've arrived back at the jewelry store and ready for pick uptomorrow. Can't wait - they're for my daughter to wear on her wedding day in 2 weeks.

[drea]

Wondering what everyone's opinion is on this necklace-
said to be Mikimoto, 28" in length with 5-5.5mm pearls, 14k white gold clasp and screw back earrings - original box. I'm not sure on the age of this necklace, but trying to find out.

[Valeria101]

Originally Posted by Lynn

... I don't have the certificate or an estimate of the value of the pearls, but know they were purchased in Japan because of the box.
My questions are (1) Will replacing the clasp raise or lower the value of the pearls, and (2) Is it wise to get Mikimoto to appraise or certify the pearls since they currently have them? Are their appraisals inflated or reliable?

I would think that having a new clasp by the original maker and papers will just reinforce the authenticity of the pearls. Which is important and useful because I believe that the brand value is what makes most of the value of the pearls and more significant then their vintage status. Also, the vintage quality is anyway obvious from the style of the necklace (i.e. graduation and pearl size).

Take my opinion with a grain of salt - I am not an expert. Just a shopper.

[effisk]

Originally Posted by drea

Wondering what everyone's opinion is on this necklace-
said to be Mikimoto, 28" in length with 5-5.5mm pearls, 14k white gold clasp and screw back earrings - original box. I'm not sure on the age of this necklace, but trying to find out.

The strand is not graduated, my guess is that the necklace is recent (eighties or later).

The fairly small size of the pearls may mean something too.

[drea]

Originally Posted by effisk

The strand is not graduated, my guess is that the necklace is recent (eighties or later).

The fairly small size of the pearls may mean something too.

Thanks for your input.. How much do you figure a necklace like this would go for? Do the older pieces still hold their value.. or like anything else does it all depend on the piece?