Vintage pearls

[Mvklein23]

Inherited these pearls from my grandmother in 2000 been sitting in a box since then wanna find out what they are and how much they could be worth

 

[Pearl Dreams]

It is hard to evaluate pearls that are photographed against a dark background-- it just swallows up the luster and details.
Could you take some more photos, this time against a white background (like a paper towel)? No flash, in focus, and please include some close-ups especially of any blemishes you see.

I don't suppose you have the clasp? Unfortunately without a Mikimoto clasp there is no way to know if they are Mikimoto brand pearls specifically, or if they are unbranded pearls that were stored in that box.

I also can't tell from that photo whether they are real pearls or imitations. They are very consistent in their shapes, colors, surface... which could be true of good cultured pearls, but also of imitations.
Again, more photos will help.

Also please try rubbing two of the pearls together gently and see what you feel. Imitation pearls tend to glide against each other smoothly while real pearls feel a bit gritty.

 

[KarinK]

Once we have helped you figure out if they are real pearls and, if so, what kind, you can check on eBay what similar have been sold for (remember to check for sold, not listed). Generally the resale value of pearls is low. In most cases it's better to clean them, restring them and wear them. Maybe redesign them if the white look is not appealing.

 

[Mvklein23]

It is hard to evaluate pearls that are photographed against a dark background-- it just swallows up the luster and details.
Could you take some more photos, this time against a white background (like a paper towel)? No flash, in focus, and please include some close-ups especially of any blemishes you see.

I don't suppose you have the clasp? Unfortunately without a Mikimoto clasp there is no way to know if they are Mikimoto brand pearls specifically, or if they are unbranded pearls that were stored in that box.

I also can't tell from that photo whether they are real pearls or imitations. They are very consistent in their shapes, colors, surface... which could be true of good cultured pearls, but also of imitations.
Again, more photos will help.

Also please try rubbing two of the pearls together gently and see what you feel. Imitation pearls tend to glide against each other smoothly while real pearls feel a bit gritty.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Did you do the test I suggested: rubbing 2 of the pearl together to see if they feel gritty or smooth?

In general I'm getting a fake pearl vibe, but I see a blemish on the 12th pearl from the end that I'd like to see in focus, very close up. If you have a magnifier, look at it closely-- does it look like the pearl coating is flaking away there? If so they may be imitation pearls.
I marked the pearl I'm referring to:

 

[BWeaves]

Both strands look like old imitation pearls to me. I have a double strand of imitation pearls from my grandmother that have a similar look, except mine have a sterling silver clasp. My grandmother treasured them and wore them like they were real pearls.

 

[Rosevenn123]

I’ve rubbed 2 pearls together they feel gritty the box says they are mikado pearls what pearls are they if you can tell I would like to know so I can insure them

 

[BWeaves]

Mikado just means Emperor in Japan. The word Mikado has been used by several companies that have been out of business for decades. You might want to read this old thread from 20 years ago.

C

Thread 'Mikado Pearl?'

Jul 26, 2005

I have a necklace that came in a small case/bag that has Mikado Pearl Ginza Tokyo in gold written. Has anyone heard of Mikado Pearl? I got this from my grandmother and I'm despereate to find its history b/c she has memory loss from a stroke.

• camillia
• Replies: 4
• Forum: Pearl Questions?

You don't need to insure the pearls. They don't have that great a value. You should have them cleaned and restrung. They'll get much prettier. Then wear them!