So I was the one who originally asked.... Since then I have found out tons! The Pearls As One clasp is the best time I spent, besides looking at a boat load of pearls... Do take the class...many people around here have codes to take it for free. I can now identify ok - good - great pearls. Pearls over the years from the 1940's to now have lots of changes. Gold can give you a clue..but just 1 clue. At one time Rice (Krispy) pearls were new in the 70's and very valuable often having a gold clasp. But they are still sold today & often have a base metal clasp then. Saltwater Akoyas vary with the era...older 40'-late 50's tend to have Silver clasp, but 60's-80's have gold clasps. Newer Saltwater or Freshwater really vary too...some have silver clasps, but amazing pearls...some have gold clasp and cheap pearls. The class really helps you identify different pearls.