Search results

In the 18 years I've been looking in here the quality of FW has so dramatically improved that visual distinctions are indeed challenging. Labs can differentiate the respective trace minerals (strontium/manganese ratio) which serves to discourage deception. A (hopefully) tongue-in-cheek response...

I would just cross that seller off my list and be thankful for the conch. And don't buy a Melo Melo pearl without a certificate from a top gem lab. There are too many fakes out there. Of course, that also means paying market price.

From Beauty to the Beast! Glad you researched, and that you got your money back. A seller of that sort and a money-back policy would seem antithetical.

Great. The 9x5mm face of the pearl is actually not that small. Sounds like you have a good plan for it.

You're living dangerously! Let us know when you receive the conch. The photo is indeed of a pale pink conch pearl with pervasive flame. What are its dimensions and weight?

Your images will now offer a better chance to comment on ID. Re curiosity just be aware that natural pearls comprise a very small percentage (less than 5%, probably closer to 1%) of the market. The only bases for suspecting natural origin would be direct purchase from an area or dealer...

UV is not a preliminary test for natural vs. cultured. Only a professional with the proper experience and technology can make that determination. You seem to have an idea the pearls may be natural. What has given you that impression, sufficient to merit such curiosity?

In any case, this is not a test for natural vs. cultured in pearls. X-Ray Flourescence (not UV) will determine freshwater vs. saltwater. For natural determination X-Ray and increasingly Microtomography is required, as applied and interpreted by experienced technicians.

Thanks! Very nice pearl, and I would also be disappointed to have such a handy and creative goldsmith move away!

It's really beautiful. Would you be able to post a pic of the backside?

That is gracious to share your condition, hopefully pain remains a minor issue. Yes, why not post knowing Ken will likely see it? I was single-tracked on the pearl, so no additional awareness. And have only assumed Willey retained it.

Age is only how we feel. I'm a relatively recent member of the club. Another retiree, Ken Scarratt (former director of GIA Bangkok) was intimately entwined in the Nautilus pearl controversy and might provide an opening to 'the establishment.' I know Blaire (GemGeek) remains in contact with him...

That was among the most spectacular and relevant mollusk/pearl specimens ever posted at P-G. Yet, if the purpose of applied science is ID, it is doubtful the financial incentive exists. Your blow-softening comments are greatly appreciated, likewise your efforts and knowledge have my entire...

The understanding of nacre as aragonite platelets arranged within an organic matrix in terraced or columnar patterns (thus iridescent) appears to be at issue. I am still missing what logic there is in expanding its popular definition to non-iridescent calcium carbonate microstructures. This...

This is welcome followup to your previous thread on the subject. Two comments: 1. Valuation and transparency: The argument will be raised that pearls currently considered 'non-nacreous' include some of the most valuable of all when optical phenomenae, shape, size and color align. Primary...

Is the color significant in any way, contrasting as it does with the inner shell?

Shari, That is very attractive. Design is so fascinating! The strand is proving to be a good base to build upon. Hoping to provide a progress report here soon, we're currently visiting vineyards in Italy's Piemonte region (pic!) and will return to the jeweler with some fresh ideas upon return...

Indeed wonderful presentations. Douglas is the consummate presenter. Hannah's sharing of her life experience and natural pearl epiphany was stirring. It was a privilege to attend. Sadly we must also miss this year due to travel.

Caused me to check the WWW, and indeed this is a pearl test to be found on the information superhighway. So, a method no longer reserved for bad checks… Let us know if you learn anything more.

What about those pearls that took a commemorative ride into the upper stratosphere? Maybe one experienced an uncontrolled re-entry.