Get a Pearl Jewelry Appraisal in Baltimore
At Mayflower Estate Buyers, we are passionate about helping you understand the value of your pearls. Whether you own an heirloom necklace, a strand of Akoya pearls, or unique freshwater pieces, our certified GIA Graduate Gemologists and USPAP-compliant appraisers provide accurate, unbiased valuations. We are the trusted choice for expert jewelry appraisal services in Towson, MD, offering a transparent, education approach that puts your peace of mind first.
Pearl Appraisal or Ready to Sell?
Deciding what to do with your pearl jewelry can feel overwhelming. The market is complex, and the last thing you want is to sell an heirloom for less than its worth, or pay for an appraisal that isn’t recognized by your insurance. We eliminate that risk by offering two distinct, transparent paths, ensuring you get the exact professional help you need, whether that’s an appraisal or an offer.
GIA Pearl Valuation Standards and Process
To give you a valuation that stands up to an insurance claim or an estate audit, we don’t guess—we follow the most rigorous standards in the industry. Our Graduate Gemologist appraisers use the GIA 7 Pearl Value Factors to examine your piece. This is how we ensure your appraisal is precise, fair, and legally sound.
The 7 Factors That Determine Your Pearl’s Value
- Luster: We assess the intensity and sharpness of light reflection, which is the key indicator of quality.
- Nacre Thickness: Assurance of Durability. Critical for long-term luster and durability; thicker nacre indicates superior quality.
- Size: Measured in millimeters; larger sizes, particularly in rare types, yield exponentially higher value.
- Type and Origin: Identifies the pearl’s source (Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, etc.) to set the market baseline.
- Color: Assessment of body color, overtone, and orient (iridescence) determines value based on market demand.
- Shape: Value is highest for perfectly round pearls, with drops and symmetrical baroques also having specific market value.
- Surface Quality: Examination of blemishes or imperfections; fewer surface flaws leads to a higher worth.
- Matching and Assembly (Additional Factor): For strands, we evaluate uniformity in size, color, and luster, plus the value of the clasp and settings.
We Appraise All Types of Fine Pearl Jewelry
Our experts specialize in the complete range of natural and cultured pearls, spanning antique heirlooms and modern strands. If it’s a valuable pearl, we appraise it.
Tahitian Pearls
Famous for their exotic dark colors, Tahitian pearls come in shades of black, green, and blue. Sourced from French Polynesia, these pearls are larger and highly sought after for their natural iridescence.
Akoya Pearls
Known for their classic round shape and high luster, Akoya pearls are a staple in fine jewelry. They’re often white or cream with subtle pink overtones, originating from Japan and China.
South Sea Pearls
Among the largest and most valuable pearls, South Sea pearls are celebrated for their golden or white hues, smooth surfaces, and deep luster. They’re primarily cultivated in Australia, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
Freshwater Pearls
Harvested in lakes and rivers, freshwater pearls come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Their irregular forms add a charming uniqueness to any piece.
Mabe Pearls
Known as “blister pearls,” Mabe pearls have a dome shape and impressive luster. They’re often used as focal points in jewelry.
Keshi Pearls
A byproduct of the pearl farming process, Keshi pearls are admired for their organic shapes and high luster. They’re available in saltwater and freshwater varieties.
Our Pearl Appraisal Process
At Mayflower Estate Buyers, every appraisal is handled with a rigorous, transparent process to deliver the highest level of accuracy. We ensure your valuation is defensible, reliable, and backed by a GIA Graduate Gemologist and USPAP compliance.
Step 1: Initial Consultation & Documentation
We start with a focused conversation to understand your needs (insurance, sale, estate) and review any existing documents, provenance, or prior lab reports you may have.
Step 2: Comprehensive Examination
Your pearls are assessed by our GIA Graduate Gemologist, who meticulously evaluates your piece against the GIA 7 Pearl Value Factors for an objective quality analysis.
Step 3: Current Market Analysis
We determine the final value by cross-referencing our quality assessment with real-time market data, ensuring your valuation reflects today’s actual market.
Step 4: Detailed Appraisal Report
You’ll receive a comprehensive report with descriptions, photos, and valuations suitable for insurance, estate planning, or personal reference.
Why Choose Mayflower Estate Buyers?
Expertise You Can Trust
Our certified gemologists bring extensive knowledge and experience to every appraisal.
Local Insights, National Reach
Based in Towson, MD, we combine local market expertise with an understanding of national trends.
Transparency at Every Step
We prioritize clear communication so you know exactly how your pearls were appraised.
Ready to Have Your Pearl Jewelry Appraised? Let's Connect!
Share your details below or email hello@mayflowerestatebuyers.com and we will be in touch. You can also give us a call at (410) 236-7088.
Frequently Asked Questions
Top 10 Questions About Pearl Appraisals
How do you determine the value of my pearls?
We determine value using the GIA 7 Pearl Value Factors (Luster, Nacre, Size, Color, Shape, Surface, Matching) combined with real-time global wholesale market data.
Are my pearls real or imitation?
This is a primary goal of the examination. Our GIA Graduate Gemologist uses magnification and specialized testing to definitively determine if your pearls are natural, cultured, or imitation.
Do natural pearls exist anymore, and do I have any?
Yes, natural pearls still exist, but they are extremely rare. We provide specialized testing and identification to confirm if your piece is natural and can accurately value it against current auction records.
What’s the difference between freshwater and saltwater pearls?
Saltwater pearls (Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea) grow in mollusks in the ocean and typically have a bead nucleus. Freshwater pearls grow in mussels in lakes/rivers and are typically all nacre. This difference greatly affects value expectations.
Why do two strands of pearls that look similar have different values?
The difference almost always lies in the subtle qualities of Luster (the sharpness of the reflection), Surface Quality (blemish levels), and Matching (uniformity of the pearls). Our detailed report explains these disparities.
Can you tell where my pearls came from?
Yes. Our experts can identify the specific type (Akoya, Tahitian, South Sea, etc.) based on size, color, overtone, and structure, which allows us to pinpoint the likely origin.
Does the clasp or brand name affect the appraisal?
Yes, absolutely. For vintage, antique, or signed designer pieces (e.g., Cartier, Mikimoto), the clasp, mounting metal, and brand provenance can significantly increase the final appraisal value.
How often should I have my pearls re-appraised?
We recommend re-appraising fine pearls for insurance purposes every 3 to 5 years. The market price for pearls fluctuates, and reappraisal ensures your insurance coverage is always up-to-date.
Will you clean or restring my pearls as part of the appraisal?
No, we do not perform cleaning or restringing, as these are specialized services separate from appraisals. Restringing and professional cleaning should be completed before the appraisal if the string is broken or worn, or if dirt is obscuring the luster. If needed, we will help arrange this service for you, ensuring the care is handled by trusted professionals.
Do pearls increase in value over time?
Like all commodities, the value of pearls fluctuates based on market demand, supply, and rarity. While rare, high-quality, large, natural pearls can appreciate, the value depends entirely on the specific factors and current market trends.