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Great advice . Thrift and estate sales are seriously underrated for pearls, especially if you know what you’re looking at. And +1 on the Pearls as One course - it’s an excellent resource and really sharpens your eye. Sounds like you’re doing a great service for the charity and feeding the pearl...

Yep, totally freshwater-those shapes and color give it away. Seller just doesn’t know.

Welcome! From your description, it sounds like surface growth lines or minor scratches, not cracks, especially since the pearl still shines. Pearls are delicate, so dropping them can leave tiny marks-normal for AAA pearls. A jeweller can check if it’s serious, but it’s probably just cosmetic.

Exactly-freshwater pearls are always cultured, and while top-quality round, mirror‑luster pearls are rare, they definitely exist. Most are just not as perfect, which is why people assume they can’t be.

I’d start with eBay Australia or Etsy-those platforms get buyers looking for unique pearls. Also check Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace if you want to sell locally and avoid shipping. Another good option is to talk to local jewellers; some will buy natural abalone pearls or sell them on consignment.

Hard to tell from photos alone. Natural blue Akoyas are rare; most “blue” ones on Etsy are dyed. Check with the seller about treatment or get a gemologist to confirm.

Welcome, Lee! From the photo, they look like cultured pearls, possibly freshwater. Size, luster, surface quality, and clasp material will affect value. For an accurate estimate, a local jeweler or certified appraiser is your safest bet before selling.

If I had to pick five, I’d keep pieces with the best luster, unique shapes, and sentimental value-quality over quantity. Starting over, I’d focus on diversity and invest in a few standout pearls rather than chasing every cool find.

Beautiful! That clam pearl really pops-love the glow and the craftsmanship on the bracelet.

If the necklace is genuine Mikimoto with good luster, $600 for restringing and certification is reasonable. You’ll preserve the value and wearability-worth it if you plan to keep or wear it.