Natural South Sea Pearl
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Lagoon Island Pearls
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Do you know it's precise origin? Species, location, method of harvest etc.
Lab certification as natural would likely increase the value, but whether it's cost effective is something to consider. Likewise, if it's a keishi... you'd lose money.
Assuming it is natural, there is no certain criteria from which valuation can be established. We often say here, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder... and such is value.
Unless you harvested this pearl yourself, it's wise to be wary of "natural" claims.
Lab certification as natural would likely increase the value, but whether it's cost effective is something to consider. Likewise, if it's a keishi... you'd lose money.
Assuming it is natural, there is no certain criteria from which valuation can be established. We often say here, that beauty is in the eye of the beholder... and such is value.
Unless you harvested this pearl yourself, it's wise to be wary of "natural" claims.
Lagoon Island Pearls
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On a side note, this pearl has nice shape, size and color. A jewelcrafter could envision a multitude of settings.
No, I don't have the answers to those questions. That's why I am sending it to GIA.
My Grandfather purchased it for my Grandmother in the early 70s From what she can remember, he paid about $800 back then. It was set in a ring, but I had it taken out. I have shown it to one well know appraiser in my area several years ago and he was pretty certian that it was natural, but would not offer a value until I sent it to GIA.
My Grandfather purchased it for my Grandmother in the early 70s From what she can remember, he paid about $800 back then. It was set in a ring, but I had it taken out. I have shown it to one well know appraiser in my area several years ago and he was pretty certian that it was natural, but would not offer a value until I sent it to GIA.
Lagoon Island Pearls
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Do you still have the ring itself? Sometimes, but not always the setting can help identify the pearl.
Given your family has been in possession of it for so long, adds provenance.
Try placing it on a back lighted surface. Natural pearls tend to glow, because they have no discernible nucleus.
Given your family has been in possession of it for so long, adds provenance.
Try placing it on a back lighted surface. Natural pearls tend to glow, because they have no discernible nucleus.
Caitlin
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Although I think your family's story may be correct, this pearl really should be certified. Certification will give it its own identity forever. The pearl is large enough to be worth it. It may be a large keshi, but that is what the labs are for.
After doing some research on the Keshi Pearls I could see how someone could mistake it for a Keshi from the pictures I downloaded. If Keshi is something that has happened in the last 10-20 years, the pearl I have is certainly not one. This pearl has been in my family for at least the last 40 years. I lived with my Grandmother growing up and saw her wear it all the time. (I am 31) I plan to have it sent to GIA soon and I will post once I get the report. Thanks for the help.
mausketeer
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And don't forget the ring if you still have it! (take photos and include them too if you can)
- Jodie -
- Jodie -
