Is the diamond/pearl clasp worth more than the pearls?

[domigigi2007]

Hello.... these pearls are at least 45 years old. I have a picture of my mother wearing them. I do not know anything about pearls, but from what I have been reading, they may not be worth a whole lot. They are not gritty to the teeth. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you!

 

[dkan 168]

The pearls do look rather too uniform in shape and lustre to be real, IMHO. Are there any markings on the clasp that may help to identify what it is made of?

DK

 

[pattye]

Hello and welcome,

You've answered a few of the questions, but here is the full list that will help us evaluate your necklace. We especially need photos as in #2.

1. Do the pearls feel slightly gritty or smooth when rubbed gently against your tooth or against another pearl?
If they are gritty, they are likely to be real nacre (genuine pearls.) If they feel smooth, they are likely imitation pearls.

2. Please provide clear, in-focus photos without flash against a white background (a paper towel works nicely.)
Include close-ups of the clasp (front and back) and a few of the pearls. If there are flaws, include a photo of those. Also the box they came in, and tags if you have them.

3. Any history you can give us about the pearls. Where/when you or your relative got them, any documentation you have (receipts, appraisals), their price range if you know it, etc.

4. Describe any marks on the clasp. These may be numbers (14K, 585, 750, 925 etc.) or brand names or even pictures.

5. Measure the pearls, with a millimeter ruler if possible. If they are graduated, measure the largest and smallest pearls.

How great to have a photo of your mother wearing the pearls! Lots of sentimental value here!

Thanks very much~

 

[Pearl Dreams]

It's unlikely that a diamond clasp would be put on imitation pearls. Is it possible they are rhinestones?

Test the pearls on the clasp by rubbing one gently against your tooth. They don't have to be very gritty...if it's real nacre you will feel a bit of resistance as you rub it against your tooth. Same goes for the pearls on the strand itself.