In general, coin pearls are less valuable than perfectly round pearls, but they can still be considered valuable depending on several factors.
Here’s a breakdown of factors that influence the value of coin pearls:
- Shape: Perfectly round pearls are the most prized and valuable shape due to their rarity. Coin pearls are flat with a disc-like or button-like shape. While not perfectly round, well-formed coin pearls with good symmetry can still be appealing and valuable.
- Luster: Luster refers to the intensity and quality of light reflecting off the pearl’s surface. Coin pearls with high luster are more desirable than those with a dull appearance.
- Nacre Quality: Nacre is the iridescent substance that makes up the pearl. In freshwater pearls, like most coin pearls, the pearl is composed almost entirely of nacre. However, for bead-nucleated pearls (a type of cultured pearl where a bead is inserted as a nucleus), the nacre thickness is important for durability and luster. A thicker, more uniform nacre is generally preferred for quality and durability, [according to Multicolour Gems].
- Surface Quality: The fewer blemishes, spots, or marks on the surface of the pearl, the more valuable it is.
- Size: Larger pearls, when other factors are equal, are typically more valuable.
- Color: While coin pearls come in a range of colors, the depth, consistency, and overtone of the color contribute to its value.
- Matching: For strands or sets, the consistency in size, shape, color, and luster of the pearls is a key factor in valuation.
The value of coin pearls can vary widely. Here are some examples:
- Lower value: Loose coin pearls can be purchased for relatively low prices, such as a [10-11mm pair of white coin pearls] for around $4.62 on Etsy and a strand of 12-13mm coin pearls with tails for $29.97 on OrientalPearls.Net.
- Higher Value: A 16-17mm strand of large white coin pearls can be found on YouPearl for $36.99 . A necklace with huge sized 22-24mm coin pearls is offered on OrientalPearls.Net for $119.99. Fine jewelry pieces, like a Bloomingdale’s necklace featuring cultured freshwater coin pearls in 14K yellow gold, can cost upwards of $1400-$1650.
In essence, while they are not as rare as perfectly round pearls, coin pearls can be valuable when they exhibit excellent luster, surface quality, and a desirable size. Their unique, flat shape makes them popular for various jewelry designs.
Are coin pearls real pearls?
From my experience, Coin pearls are cultured pearls mostly farmed today in China in freshwater mussels in river, lakes or streams. They are formed by the pearl farmer inserting a flat round nucleus into the mussel to help it form the shape of the coin pearl.
What type of pearl is the most valuable?
South Sea pearls are often referred to as the Rolls Royce of pearls. They are the largest and most valuable pearls grown today, with average sizes ranging from 10 to 15 millimeters. South Sea pearls grow in a large pearl oyster native to Australia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Indonesia.
Are 100 year old pearls valuable?
It’s often assumed that because something’s old it must be valuable. That’s rarely true and certainly not for pearls. Advances in technology and culturing techniques mean you can buy a much better set of pearls for far less money than in grandma’s time.