Mikimoto Pearl Necklace Clasp Identification

Plus diamonds on the clasp.

Mikimoto pearl necklace clasp identification.

On necklaces and bracelets look on the back of the clasp. Mikimoto themselves say they cannot appraise a strand as being mikimoto brand without the clasp. 31620316183161831619i have a 17 set of mikimoto pearls with a clasp with the m in clamshell plus an s. Conch pearls are from the gulf of mexico and the caribbean.

If you have found an antique pearl necklace at a shop or have inherited one it may be difficult to determine the maker. Mikimoto jewelry is identified by the mikimoto trademark showing as the outline of an oyster or the engraving of the mikimoto name. In 1893 the founder kokichi mikimoto was the first in the world to successfully culture a pearl. If you look at the necklace for small details however these may give you a clue as to the necklace s designer.

With pearls that range from 8mm to 4 5mm in diameter on a 22 double strand. Inquire about the grade of the mikimoto pearl. Mikimoto is japan s representative jeweler. The hook clasp also called shepherd s hook was very popular in the 1950s and 1960s when chunky multi strand bead necklaces and sparkling rhinestone necklaces were very popular.

I do feel a bit of the gritty texture that indicates good quality pearls but i would love. Inheriting the founder s vision of adorning all women in the world with pearls mikimoto has been dedicated to the cultivation of beauty for more than a century. The hook and box clasp also called fish hook clasp was commonly used on pearl necklaces or necklaces with gemstone beads. I do not have the original box but they appear to be in good condition.

As the clasp is the only place in a strand or bracelet where the mikimoto trademark is engraved it is not possible to appraise a strand or a bracelet as genuine mikimoto without it of course since. A gorgeous mikimoto akoya cultured pearl single strand necklace set with a diamond clasp in 18 karat white gold. Mikimoto necklaces and bracelets are also fitted with a signature m charm. Look at the clasp of the necklace bracelet or earrings for the mikimoto trademark the letter m.

Vintage costume jewelry identification and value guide values shown in this price guide reflect the actual selling price in the venue stated in parenthesis after the value prices realized for similar collectible jewelry sold in other venues may be higher or lower depending on market fluctuations and geographical region jewelry findings. Often oval shaped the long hook was inserted and locked into place. The strand is composed of 43 akoya cultured pearls which all have an incredibly high lustre and significant size ranging from 9 1 mm to 9 4 mm. South sea cultured pearl come from indonesia australia and the philippines.

Freshwater cultured pearl come from the rivers of china. On that faq page on mikimoto site it says. I am trying to figure out what the s stands for. Keep in mind that the value of a pearl necklace is tied to the quality of the pearls and rarely to the maker.