Merqui archipelago pearls

[Robert]

Hello all,
I have always had an interest in pearls, mainly because my wonderful wife likes them and I find there are so many different types it makes for fun buying.
Having said that I am in the Merqui Archapilaco in Burma and had a chance meeting with a group of "Sea Gypsies" bought some lobster and happened to ask if they had any pearls. Well I am now going to meet them tomorrow and look at pearls and maybe purchase. I have always had rule not to buy gems in third world countries now here I am about to do just that.

Am I crazy or should I go further with this deal. Can anyone give any insight/advise.

 

[jshepherd]

Hello all,
I have always had an interest in pearls, mainly because my wonderful wife likes them and I find there are so many different types it makes for fun buying.
Having said that I am in the Merqui Archapilaco in Burma and had a chance meeting with a group of "Sea Gypsies" bought some lobster and happened to ask if they had any pearls. Well I am now going to meet them tomorrow and look at pearls and maybe purchase. I have always had rule not to buy gems in third world countries now here I am about to do just that.

Am I crazy or should I go further with this deal. Can anyone give any insight/advise.

You are almost certainly going to be shown Chinese freshwater pearls even though they will be described as everything but. Pearls grown in Burma are South Sea pearls and they are sold via auction in invited international buyers.

My only advice is to spend what you are willing to part with for the experience and go in assuming you will be looking at Chinese freshwater. Shape, size and color (especially) are dead giveaways.

 

[JerseyPearl]

I would heed Jeremy's wonderful, and expert advice.

 

[pattye]

Robert, welcome! We look forward to hearing about your experience if you do go through with the meeting.

 

[LVLanghanke]

Did you go through with it?