Any information about this old piece?

Toji

Member
Joined
May 12, 2025
Messages
9
"Hello everyone,

I have a pearl encased in an acrylic cube, which, based on its likely origin, I believe could be a South Sea pearl. The pearl itself is a well-formed teardrop (or pear) shape, pointed at one end and perfectly rounded at the other. It exhibits a strong, high luster and clear, distinct iridescence (orient) across its surface.

Approximate dimensions of the pearl are: 2.1 cm (21 mm) in length and 1.5 cm (15 mm) in width at its widest point. The weight is unknown as it is sealed within the acrylic cube.

The acrylic cube bears the following inscription, indicating its provenance:

'Third Auction'
'November 29th, 1996'
'ASBUMI - PT. BUMI'
'Jakarta'
(ASBUMI is understood to be the Indonesian Pearl Cultivation Association - Asosiasi Budidaya Mutiara Indonesia).

I have previously posted about this pearl in two other forums on this site but did not reach a definitive result. However, through my discussion with an AI, which analyzed the information written on the piece (specifically 'ASBUMI' and 'Jakarta'), it was suggested that this forum, dedicated to South Sea Pearls, would be a highly appropriate place to seek insights.

I am seeking opinions or preliminary assessments from specialists on this forum regarding its potential type, quality, and any further insights you might have based on the provided information and (if possible to share on the platform) accompanying photographs.

Thank you for your time and expertise."
photo_2025-02-24_18-39-49.jpg
 
Last edited:
Jeremy Shepherd actually answered your question HERE
 
I’ve got one of those! Yes, it’s a keshi pearl from the Indonesian Pearl Culture Association (ASBUMI) and BUMI pearl company event. Was in the heyday of Indonesian pearling and given to all participants.
Hi, thanks again for the information about it being a Keshi pearl from this ASBUMI - PT. BUMI event! Very helpful. It's great that your piece is similar too!

I have a few more questions, if that's appropriate:

So, since it's a Keshi, does that mean it's natural?

Why does it say "3rd Auction"? Is it just an auction memento?

Just out of curiosity, were you actually at the event in 1996?

And you know, always ask 😁... Do you have any general idea of what this piece might be worth today?

I really appreciate 🙏🏼 you sharing any details or other information you remember. I'm trying to piece together the full story of this piece!

Cheers!
I’ve got one of those! Yes, it’s a keshi pearl from the Indonesian Pearl Culture Association (ASBUMI) and BUMI pearl company event. Was in the heyday of Indonesian pearling and given to all participants.
 
This piece is just a momento. It's a decoration and doesn't really have any actual value. It's a sort "thank you for visiting our auction" gift for the participants. The pearl is a keshi, not a natural.
 
This piece is just a momento. It's a decoration and doesn't really have any actual value. It's a sort "thank you for visiting our auction" gift for the participants. The pearl is a keshi, not a natural.
Thank you for your time.
 
The pearl is a keshi, not a natural.
Nonetheless, unless there is a notable flaw on the backside it's an unusually symmetrical keshi. One must assume keshi considering the pearl's designated fate. But a CT analysis of the pearl in its acrylic tomb would be interesting!
 
Hi, thanks again for the information about it being a Keshi pearl from this ASBUMI - PT. BUMI event! Very helpful. It's great that your piece is similar too!

I have a few more questions, if that's appropriate:

So, since it's a Keshi, does that mean it's natural?

Why does it say "3rd Auction"? Is it just an auction memento?

Just out of curiosity, were you actually at the event in 1996?

And you know, always ask 😁... Do you have any general idea of what this piece might be worth today?

I really appreciate 🙏🏼 you sharing any details or other information you remember. I'm trying to piece together the full story of this piece!

Cheers!
I think Jeremy answered the question appropriately. Yes I was there, I had a factory in Jakarta at the time supplying products and consulting to Indonesian pearl farmers and they invited me along to witness the auction and assist where necessary.
 
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