Inherited these

[kc932]

Hello,
I inherited these and have been meaning to get them appraised so that I can figure out if they belong in the jewelry box or in the safe. They are approximately 16" and have a 14k clasp. They have a good weight to them. I was just curious if anybody could tell if they are real or fake. Thanks.

 

[pattye]

Welcome kc932,

They probably are cultured akoya pearls, but we could be more certain if you could please put up a couple more photos showning the strand on a white paper towel or other similar background. Size of pearls is about 6mm.

You can gently rub 2 pearls together that are on opposite sides of the strand, if they feel slightly gritty, that is an indicator they are genuine pearls rather than imitation pearls.

Safe deposit boxes and safes are pretty dry environments for cultured pearls.

Looking forward to more photos so we can best advise.

 

[lisa c]

Yes, please more photographs. I hope you wear them rather than store them. It feels lovely to wear a nice simple strand every day.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Agreed, that a safe or safety deposit box is not a good place for pearls as they get too dried out. It's better to wear them.

When you take more photos, try to use the close-up/macro setting on your camera for at least a couple of the pearls. Also, use natural light indoors (maybe near a door or window) and no flash, with the white paper towel background as pattye suggested. Pearl luster shows up better on a white background.