Mikimoto

Japanese

Born to a noodle-shop owner, Japanese jeweler Kokichi Mikimoto (1858–1954) worked in the seafood business before shifting his focus to pearl cultivation. In 1893, he successfully developed the world’s first cultured pearls with a semispherical specimen. His further experimentation would include black and white South Sea pearls. This development gave Mikimoto a supply of what had once been a notoriously rare natural element and earned him the nickname “The Pearl King.” As he once said, “My dream is to adorn the necks of all women around the world with pearls.”

In 1899 in Tokyo’s Ginza district, Mikimoto opened his first, eponymous store in a white-stone building reminiscent of the color of pearls. He quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Mikimoto sent his jewelers to Europe to study the latest trends in jewelry and design; they brought back knowledge of Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, which were incorporated into designs featuring Mikimoto’s pearls.

But Mikimoto’s creations were not met with enthusiasm by all. In 1921, a London newspaper called the designer’s jewelry “only imitations of real pearls” and claimed the company was “misleading” its customers. It developed into a lawsuit in the French courts, which ruled in Mikimoto’s favor, and raised the jeweler’s global profile.

He also brought his work international acclaim through exhibitions and world’s fairs, including the 1926 Sesquicentennial Exposition in Philadelphia where he unveiled a replica of the Liberty Bell covered with pearls. In 1927, Mikimoto met with Thomas Edison, who gave the jeweler’s invention probably its best compliment: “It is one of the wonders of the world that you were able to culture pearls. . . . This isn’t a cultured pearl, it’s a real pearl.”

Following World War II, Mikimoto opened stores around the world, with locations now in Paris, New York City, Los Angeles and Shanghai. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles.

In 2017, the brand reopened its flagship Tokyo store, tapping architect Hiroshi Naito to design a new glittering facade whose 40,000 tiny glass plates are meant to evoke the movement of the ocean as they catch the light. The place where Mikimoto had his legendary success over a century ago is now known as Mikimoto Pearl Island and includes a museum on his life and pearls. A highlight is the “Boss’s Necklace,” which was the first made by Mikimoto and is the model for all the brand’s classic strands that have followed.

Find Mikimoto pendant necklaces, choker necklaces and a range of other jewelry on 1stDibs.

Average Sold Price

$1,641

Styles

Related Creators

Vintage Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Necklace Suite Diamond Pendant & Earrings, 18K Gold

$8,199 / set

H 9.45 in W 18.12 in L 9.45 in

Vintage Mikimoto Akoya Pearl Necklace Suite Diamond Pendant & Earrings, 18K Gold

By Mikimoto

Located in Buckingham , Buckinghamshire

A complete Mikimoto suite with versatility and recognisable design. A refined Vintage Mikimoto cultured Akoya pearl necklace suite, comprising a graduated strand of high-quality pea...

Category

1990s Japanese Retro Mikimoto

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Necklace with Sterling Silver Clasp

$1,550

L 17 in

Vintage Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Necklace with Sterling Silver Clasp

By Mikimoto

Located in Fairfield, CT

Vintage Mikimoto Akoya Cultured Pearl Necklace with Sterling Silver Clasp This vintage Mikimoto necklace features a graduated strand of cultured Akoya pearls with a soft white body ...

Category

1960s Vintage Mikimoto

Materials

Sterling Silver

$2,240Sale Price|20% Off

Dm 0.28 in

Mikimoto 7mm White Pearl Stud Earrings in 18k Yellow Gold

By Mikimoto

Located in Chicago, IL

These elegant Mikimoto white pearl stud earrings are a quintessential example of refined luxury and timeless design. Featuring lustrous white pearls measuring approximately 7mm in di...

Category

2010s Japanese Mikimoto

Materials

Pearl, Yellow Gold

Browse all Jewelry from Mikimoto

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Mikimoto Sale Prices

Sold Date

Sold Price

Category

Material

Creation Year

2026	$5,750	Pendant Necklaces	18k Gold, White Gold, Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire	Unknown
2026	$279	Brooches	Silver, Pearl	1996
2026	$232	Cufflinks	Silver, Pearl	1995
2026	$1,600	Stud Earrings	18k Gold, Rose Gold, Diamond, Pearl	2024
2026	$392	Brooches	Sterling Silver, Pearl	1997
2026	$13,500	Beaded Necklaces	18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl	2020
2026	$950	Brooches	Sterling Silver, Cultured Pearl	20th Century
2026	$2,800	Pendant Necklaces	18k Gold, White Gold, Diamond, Pearl	Unknown
2026	$414	Brooches	Sterling Silver, Pearl	1950
2026	$1,740	Beaded Bracelets	18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Pearl	1991
2026	$830	Pendant Necklaces	Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Diamond, Pearl	Unknown
2026	$4,500	Choker Necklaces	18k Gold, Cultured Pearl	unknown
2026	$275	Brooches	Sterling Silver, Pearl	1999
2026	$600	Drop Earrings	Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Pearl	Unknown
2026	$4,450	Cocktail Rings	18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Diamond	2000
2026	$2,600	Cluster Rings	Yellow Gold, Pearl, 14k Gold	21st Century
2026	$700	Dangle Earrings	18k Gold, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, White Gold	21st Century
2026	$712	Beaded Necklaces	Sterling Silver, Pearl	1993
2026	$2,200	Beaded Necklaces	18k Gold, White Gold, Cultured Pearl	2000's
2026	$1,642	Pendant Necklaces	18k Gold, White Gold, South Sea Pearl	unknown

$1,641

Average sold price of items in the past 12 months

$119-$25,000

Sold price range of items in the past 12 months

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Mikimoto jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Mikimoto jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Mikimoto jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Mikimoto pearl jewelry & watches, from our inventory of 256, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 363 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 21st century and contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry & watches by Suzy Levian, Vaibhav Dhadda, and Butani. Prices for Mikimoto jewelry & watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $95 and tops out at $60,000, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $2,167.

Questions About Mikimoto

Do Mikimoto pearls hold their value?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Mikimoto pearls tend to at least hold their value over time. In some cases, the value of the brand's pearl jewelry increases over time due to demand and the effects of inflation. Keep in mind that the value of any piece of jewelry depends on its condition. Properly storing and caring for your pieces can help to ensure that they retain their value for years to come. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry.
Are Mikimoto pearls Akoya?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
No, not all Mikimoto pearls are Akoya. Mikimoto also uses Black South Sea cultured pearls, White South Sea cultured pearls, Golden South Sea cultured pearls, and Conch pearls to create their jewelry. Shop Mikimoto Akoya pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, Mikimoto pearls are Akoya, meaning they come from Akoya oysters. The brand largely pioneered the production of cultured pearls, which are genuine pearls developed with human assistance. Mikimoto creates Akoya pearl necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, rings and brooches. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Mikimoto pearl jewelry.
How much is a Mikimoto pearl necklace worth?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
How much a Mikimoto pearl necklace is worth will depend on the size of the strand, the number of pearls used and the design. It could range from $920 to $21,000, with a wide variety of price points in between. From pendant and choker to multi-strand and rope versions, find Mikimoto pearl necklaces on 1stDibs.
Does Mikimoto have sales?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Yes, the Mikimoto online store sometimes runs sales, especially around Valentine's Day and at the start of the holiday season. Third-party retailers may also discount prices on Mikimoto pieces, and you may find deals on their jewelry year-round on various online platforms. Shop a variety of expertly vetted Mikimoto jewelry on 1stDibs.
What are Mikimoto pearls?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Mikimoto pearls are cultured pearls sourced from Akoya oysters located in the waters off the shores of Honshu, Japan, by the jewelry house of Mikimoto. Cultured pearls are genuine pearls produced with human assistance to encourage production and promote the development of a more attractive product. Find a variety of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do I clean Mikimoto pearls?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To clean Mikimoto pearls, use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to carefully wipe each individual bead. The brand recommends that you visit an authorized Mikimoto dealer for professional ultrasonic cleaning if a cloth alone doesn't produce the desired results. Find a selection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How can you tell if pearls are Mikimoto?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
To tell if pearls are Mikimoto, look at the clasp closely. Pieces produced by the luxury jewelry maker will usually be marked with the capital letter “M.” You will also usually see a hallmark indicating the metal's purity. Because convincing counterfeits exist, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert authenticate your jewelry. Shop a selection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
Where can I buy Mikimoto pearls?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can buy Mikimoto pearls from a variety of sources. The brand operates a retail website and has boutiques in New York City, Beverly Hills, Las Vegas and Costa Mesa, California. In addition, you can purchase their jewelry from authorized brick-and-mortar retailers and reputable online platforms. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Mikimoto pearl jewelry.
Where is Mikimoto pearl island?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Mikimoto Pearl Island is found off the coast of Toba, Japan, in Ise Bay. The jewelry house of Mikimoto owns the island and sources its Akoya oysters from its shorelines. Tourists can visit the island and view exhibits in the brand's onsite museum. Find a collection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
Where do Mikimoto pearls come from?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
All Mikimoto pearls come from Akoya oysters sourced from Ise Bay in Japan. The brand cultures the pearls, meaning that they obtain them from real oysters but assist with the development of the precious gemstone. On 1stDibs, find a range of Mikimoto pearl jewelry.
Are Mikimoto pearls worth it?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
Many jewelry lovers believe that Mikimoto pearls are worth it. After opening his first eponymous store in a white-stone building reminiscent of the color of pearls in Tokyo in 1899, founder Kokichi Mikimoto quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Mikimoto sent his jewelers to Europe to study the latest trends in jewelry and design. They brought back knowledge of Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, which were incorporated into pieces featuring Mikimoto’s pearls.

Following World War II, Mikimoto opened stores around the world, with locations now in Paris, New York City, Los Angeles and Shanghai. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles.

However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Mikimoto pearl jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection.

Find Mikimoto pearl jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Is Mikimoto worth buying?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
Many jewelry lovers believe that Mikimoto is worth buying. Japanese jeweler Kokichi Mikimoto (1858–1954) worked in the seafood business before shifting his focus to pearl cultivation. In 1893, he successfully developed the world’s first cultured pearls with a semispherical specimen. His further experimentation would include black and white South Sea pearls. In 1899, in Tokyo’s Ginza district, Mikimoto opened his first eponymous store in a white-stone building reminiscent of the color of pearls. He quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Mikimoto jewelry is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Mikimoto jewelry and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Are Mikimoto pearls worth buying?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2024
Yes, many jewelry lovers believe that Mikimoto pearls are worth buying. During the early 20th century, founder Kokichi Mikimoto quickly earned a reputation for dazzling designs that blended Japanese craftsmanship and European influence. Mikimoto sent his jewelers to Europe to study the latest trends in jewelry and design; they brought back knowledge of Art Deco and Art Nouveau styles, which were incorporated into designs featuring Mikimoto’s pearls. Though its founder died in 1954, the Mikimoto company has continued to build on the legacy he established, producing collections of pearl necklaces and other pearl-centric jewelry that span a wide range of styles. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Mikimoto pearls is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find a collection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if Mikimoto pearls are real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Real Mikimoto pearl jewelry will have a mark on the back or inside of the piece that is either the Mikimoto name, an “M” logo or the outline of an oyster. In addition, strands of pearls will have a dangling “M” charm. Mikimoto stores and authorized retailers will also appraise and issue a certificate of valuation for any Mikimoto piece. Browse a variety of expertly vetted Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do I tell if pearl jewelry is Mikimoto?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
All Mikimoto pearl jewelry is marked with either ‘Mikimoto’ or their ‘M’ logo. The pearls used by Mikimoto are exceptional in quality, with lustrous, thick nacre, beautifully round shape and no color imperfections. Shop a wide range of professionally authenticated Mikimoto pieces from top boutiques on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between Akoya and Mikimoto pearls?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The difference between Akoya and Mikimoto pearls comes down to specificity. Akoya is the general name for pearls derived from Pinctada fucata mollusks. These are prized for their smooth texture, round shape and attractive shine. Mikimoto pearls are pearls sold by the Japanese jewelry maker Mikimoto, which specializes in Akoya pearls. Nearly all Mikimoto pearls are Akoya pearls. However, other jewelers also sell Akoya pearl jewelry. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Mikimoto and Akoya pearls.
Where can I get Mikimoto pearls appraised?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can get Mikimoto pearls appraised from any licensed appraiser who has experience determining the value of this type of jewelry. In addition, the brand will provide a Certificate of Valuation for a fee. To obtain one, you must visit or ship the jewelry to a Mikimoto boutique and provide the original purchase receipt. On 1stDibs, shop a range of expertly vetted Mikimoto pearl jewelry.
How do you tell if Mikimoto pearls are authentic?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 29, 2024
To tell if Mikimoto pearls are real, first examine the clasp. On authentic pieces, you will find the brand's M trademark logo. Comparing the stamp on your piece to images of the markings on real Mikimoto jewelry published on trusted online resources may allow you to identify inconsistencies that could indicate your jewelry is a replica. Besides the stamp, you should also see a marking corresponding to the metal purity, such as “18K” for gold or “S,” “SL,” “Sterling,” “Silver” or “950” for sterling silver. Pieces that lack purity stamps are unlikely to be authentic. The pearls themselves may also help you authenticate your jewelry. Mikimoto pearls will usually be perfectly round, lustrous and between 3 and 10 millimeters in diameter. If questions remain about the authenticity of your piece, use the services of a certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert. Shop a selection of Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if Mikimoto pearls are vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Vintage Mikimoto pearls are set with cream or white pearls. Colored pearls are a modern addition. All Mikimoto pearl jewelry includes marks on the back or inside of the piece that is either the Mikimoto name, an “M” logo or the outline of an oyster. In addition, strands of pearls will have a dangling “M” charm. Mikimoto stores and authorized retailers will also appraise and issue a certificate of valuation for any Mikimoto piece. Find a variety of expertly vetted Mikimoto pearl jewelry on 1stDibs.
How do I tell if Mikimoto pearls are real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To tell if Mikimoto pearls are real, look for the brand's hallmark. Depending on the piece, you may see an outline of an oyster or the full brand name. On necklaces and bracelets, the mark is on the back of the clasp. Earrings show it along the post, while pendants bear the name on the back of their bails. On 1stDibs, find a collection of expertly vetted Mikimoto pearl jewelry.