Recent content by ennui

Was the GSS listed as fake? There are reputable sellers, but they are like the needle in a haystack.

Funny you should mention eBay. Yesterday I was poking around and saw white South Sea stretch bracelets. I recognized the photo from an online retailer who went out of business -- so, they stole the photo. There were two listings for the same bracelet -- two different sellers -- both in the same...

Maybe you can be open to larger earrings?

There are different species of abalone (seven just in California), some with softer colors. I have an abalone bracelet from Mexico with soft creams and browns and pinks.

I think it is abalone -- abalone shells have vibrant colors on both sides. The lighter side of the pendant could have been a mabe pearl that formed on the inside of the shell, and they cut it out and polished both before the bezel setting. Whatever it is, it's pretty and I hope you enjoy it!

This is polished black lipped (Pinctada margaritifera), for comparison... lots of pinks and greens

I agree with Pearl Dreams. Pass on both. Also, the two items are completely different; one is long, one is short and graduated. I suggest giving a little more thought to what you would like and what would fit your lifestyle?

I think it looks like mother of pearl -- but I'd also like to know what the back looks like. The vibrant colors have me wondering if it's a doublet?

The first photo looks like there's supposed to be an insert clasp but the bead with the tongue is missing. I'll leave the pearl assessment to the experts.

And there are jewelry manufacturers who make only findings -- clasps, beads, etc.

The hallmark T isn't much to go on. It's not Tiffany. What's the mark to the left of the T? Since it's not marked for gold, it could be 10K or 9K or even plated.

I don't think it's a pearl. If it's dense, I'm guessing rock. Maybe a moonstone?

I'm no expert, either. I believe the strand with the pearl stations could be coral or maybe conch shell. Conch shell is often used in jewelry for cameos and beads. If you find out, please let us know.

I love the clasp, so pretty and intricate.

One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, FLOOR. I can't tell you my secret word. It's a secret.