[zoltan115]

Dear Pearl Aficionados,

My sister-in-law gave me this necklace to have appraised. It has 42 South Sea Thai pearls that range in size from 8 to 12 mm. in diameter. They range in colour from brushed stainless steel to caramel to mother-of-pearl pink. Moreover, similar colours are not matched together, but rather placed exclusively based on size. There is a 12k gold clasp at the top, which I suspect has only nominal value.

I’ve also noticed that many of the pearls have what seem to be surface blemishes. Does this suggest that these are low-quality pearls that have deteriorated over time? One yellow pearl even seems to be cracked or peeling—perhaps the nacre is extremely thin?

I have been told that the necklace was initially appraised 3 years ago at 4000 EUR (=4650USD), yet I took this piece to a trusted and knowledgeable local jeweler 2 days ago who believed no one would pay more than 400 EUR (620 USD) for it, as it was of such poor quality.

Based on these pictures and my description, what value would you appraise this piece at?

-Charles

[pattye]

Hi Zoltan,

Those pearls look pretty round, but also heavily blemished. I wonder if the original seller provided the high appraisal? Rather than an independent appraiser. I am not certain if Thai pearls are held to the same nacre thickness as other SS and Tahitians are. Also not able to tell from the photos if the pearls exhibit very pretty overtones. I do like the necklaces with varying colors, but generally all one color have higher value (matching). If the pearls have been stored in a safe for a long time it could affect the nacre quality, but blemishes are blemishes.

I would have to say the value would be worth much closer to the lower figure than the higher figure. IMHO.

Pattye
so many pearls, so little time