grandmas pearls. natural? how to value and insure.

[mattallen]

Hello everyone. I'm new to the pearl realm. finding it extremely interesting though. I recently recieved a rope of pearls from my grandmothers estate and would like to have it appraised and insured. I'm finding some difficulties getting someone to steer me in the proper direction. i've done some extensive research on "natural" vs. "cultured" pearls just to find myself in the same state of mind I was in when I started. I believe these pearls to be natural, but would like documentation to back that up as well as an appraisal for insurance purposes and for the future if we should decide to go to auction.
Please help me move forward in my quest to quench my desire to understand exactly what we have here. I would really like to know what body of water these came from as well. Any help will be greatly appreciated.
I would like to add that the sizes range from 4.5mm - 5.5mm.


Thank you all.

 

[MSC]

Hi, really lovely pearls. I'm no cultured pearl expert, but these appear to be cultured. Have you looked at the pearl candling thread yet? You could try candling some of the pearls on the strand and one of the experts may be able to tell you if there is a bead present or not. Either way the color and the off round shapes are just beautiful!

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Hi,

It's so nice that you've inherited pearls from your grandmother! Whatever they are, that in itself makes them special for sentimental reasons.

The dark photos make it hard to tell what the color of the pearls is. Some are a little out of focus as well making it harder to see the surface.

Could you please take some more photos?

• in natural, indirect light (diffuse light)
• without flash
• against a white background
• some close-ups

They do appear to be genuine pearls, possibly cultured, but it might be a good idea anyway to try the tooth test which will help identify imitation pearls. Rub a pearl gently against the edge of your front tooth, or else rub 2 of the pearls gently against each other. Genuine pearl nacre, including cultured pearls, will feel a bit resistant (unless they have a coating), while imitation pearls will usually feel smooth (unless quite dirty or worn).