Antique Pearls

Q: How do I find out if the pearls I have are natural or cultured. They were purchased in Japan during World War II.

A: There have been very few natural pearls on the market since well before WWII for a variety of reasons. If you have a strand that was purchased in Japan during that time period, they will be cultured Akoya pearls. They should also be graduated, as was the style during this time.

Most oyster beds where natural pearls were harvested had been nearly destroyed by the turn of the century when pearl culturing really began to take off. Unfortunately, there was world-wide over harvesting of those oyster beds in order to supply the increasing demand for pearls and the oysters came close to extinction in some cases. Many of the world’s governments stepped in and the oyster beds became protected territory. Japan was the first country to really pursue culturing as an industry and as such, most of the Akoya pearls came from that area until later in the century when China began to develop similar businesses. The history of pearls and pearl culturing is long and rich, if you are interested in more information about this I would be happy to point you in the direction of some sources and books.

If you are in need of an appraisal for you strand of pearls, our best suggestion is to find a local auction house or antique dealer who specialize in vintage and antique pearls. Many times these dealers will have recommendations of appraisers with the same specialty.