Mikimoto Jewelry

Questions About Mikimoto Jewelry

• 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 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 cultured pearls worth any money?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024

  Yes, cultured pearls may be worth money. Although they tend to be worth less than natural pearls, cultured pearls are still real pearls and can be worth hundreds to even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Potential selling prices depend on the color, size and quality of loose pearls, and ones set in jewelry may be worth more due to the pieces' ages, makers, types and styles. A certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can provide you with an estimated value for your pearls. Find a large selection of pearl 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 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.

• 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.

• 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 you tell if Japanese pearls are real?

  1 Answer
  1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024

  To tell if Japanese pearls are real, first feel their surfaces carefully. Cultured and natural pearls will be slightly gritty, while imitations will usually feel smooth. Next, look at the pearls side by side. Real pearls will show slight variations in shape and size. If your pearls look entirely uniform, they are less likely to be real. A certified appraiser or experienced jeweler can evaluate your pearls if you need further assistance. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of pearl jewelry.

• 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.

• 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 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 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.

• 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.