Ancient pearls

[joann williams]

I have seen a very unusual strand of pearls from a dealer that I trust for things such as beautiful Roman bronze items and dzi beads, and he tells me that they are dated B C. i have never had any experience with such an item and I am looking for any guidance/advice as I do want to make an educated purchase. They are pretty expensive.
I am looking for links and info on pearls that old.
Thank you, Jo Ann Williams

 

[pattye]

Hello Jo Ann,

Welcome! Is there any way to get a couple of good photos of this item to post here? Are they set with high karat gold? How many pearls are there, and what is their size? Would you be planning to wear them? Did you see them in person? What kind of provenance do the pearls have?

Several members here have special knowledge of antique jewelry. I am not one of them. Personally, I would be skeptical of claims that the pearls are that old.

Under this section "Pearl History" are many threads showing pics and discussing antique jewelry. Were there any pearls there that reminded you of this strand? Hope to hear more from you and see some good clear photos.

Here is a link another member, DFrey found: http://www.amnh.org/exhibitions/pearls/history/antiquity.html Also check out http://www.fieldmuseum.org

 

[GemGeek]

They sound great, but I wouldn't purchase without authentication from a museum or a specialist in antiquities. Dealers have to trust a chain of sources that could have been mislead at any point.
Good luck!