I
have heard about freshwater pearls or cultivated pearls before but I have never
heard of mikimoto pearl. Some people often misinterpret the word "Akoya"
as having the same meaning as “Mikimoto” but the fact is that they are totally
independent of each other.
Strictly
speaking, Mikimoto pearls are those cultivated under a strict patented process
in the bays of Ise, Honshu, Japan. They are farmed in a tiny island located off
the Ise coast previously purchased by the Mikimoto family in the 1930`s and has
since then become a part of the rich international legacy.
Mikimoto
deploys a worldly recognized grading method independent of the GIA grading
standards to evaluate pearl quality. The highest quality pearl receives AAA
rating and also has a "mirror like" reflection when compared to lower
grade pearl. Most purchasers are not
jewelers or appraisers, therefore they are not aware of the exact grade of
their Mikimoto pearl. As such, they depend on valuation certification for insurance
purposes.
For
buyers who are really interested in distinguishing true high grade mikimoto pearls
from cheaper freshwater or akoya pearls, you could inspect the pearls under
microscopic magnification. Authentic Mikimoto pearls have distinguished roadmap
patterns that experienced pearl jewelers will be able to identify them. However,
like most of us who are not experienced pearl jewelers, the quickest way to
inspect a pearl is to look for very slight rose tint, pink or undertone, which will
not be found in 95% of any other Akoya pearl. This is the most important tip for
beginners or other first time buyers to watch out for.
Mikimoto Pearl Video
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