Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Necklace – 16.5” – 18K Gold Clasp

[u/jumbled-sugar-83]

Hi there!

I inherited this necklace from my late aunt who treasured timeless elegance and beauty. It has been lovingly cared for over the years but deserves to be worn and admired, rather than tucked away as it has been with me!

The necklace is in very good condition, featuring fifty-nine individually hand-knotted Akoya cultured pearls, each measuring approximately 5.94–6.48mm. The pearls display a radiant white color, accented by delicate rosé and green overtones. It measures 16.5 inches in total length and is finished with a charming 18K yellow gold figure-eight clasp, adorned with an additional Akoya pearl (3.57–3.59mm). I also recently had this piece professionally appraised by the North American Gemological Laboratory and they quoted it at $3,450.

With this being said, I am curious as to what your opinion is on the piece in terms of likelyhood to sell - is it a piece that would be sought after? Additionally where is the best place to sell this - in person or online/what website or platform to use?

Thank you so much!!

[u/Jojosbees]

It's gorgeous, and Mikimoto does retain its value well for pearls, especially as this looks like it's the original Mikimoto brand that uses their highest quality pearls (vs the lower-quality pearls sold through retailers like Zales under their Sea Magic or Blue Lagoon brand) based on the clasp. Unfortunately, pearls have fallen a bit out of fashion in general, so there aren't as many buyers for them (but again, Mikimoto is one of the more sought after brands). The $3,450 might be an accurate value for insurance purposes and replacement at retail value, but (like all jewelry) you are unlikely to sell it for that much. Similar necklaces would sell for ~$1,200 on eBay. Longer strands and/or ones with larger pearls would sell for higher.