What Other Jewelry Brands Do You Buy/Wear?

[eletons]

Here are three photos to show you akoyas and some additional pearl insight.
As you know by now, akoya pearls are known for their superior glow and luster. No other pearl can compete on the "glow" level.
Yes, South Seas are big, but bigger is not better to me. South Seas have more of a satin finish and do not have the glow of akoyas. Akoyas, especially fine akoyas, glow like glass The downside to akoyas is they only get as big as around 9.5mm in size, and that's it. Most strands you see are in the 5mm-7mm range. Anything over 8mm is considered "big" in akoya terms, 8.5mm is premium pricing, and 9.5mm is really big in akoya pearl speak, and of course the price matches that. So... "Big Akoya" stands for my love of big akoya pearls.

Below is a photo of me at my recent trip to Mikimoto a few months ago.
Mikimoto just got in a long strand of "big akoya" pearls, so I had to see them. The pearls are 9.5mm and the strand is 34" long. The price of the strand is $98,000.00.

In the photo, both strands I am wearing are 9.5mm in size. The longer strand is mine, and it is 38" long. The shorter one is the 34" strand, the one I went to see.

The second and third photo shows you the glow, the mirror finish. The shorter strand on the left is the boutique's, and the longer strand on the right is mine. Aren't they so gorgeous? Can you see the glow? The mirror finish? The last photo is the best photo, and they look even better in real life. I truly can stare at fine pearls all day long.

I love love love simple, classic strands. I wear them with everything... suits, shorts, jeans. Pearls literally go with everything. I thought for a three days if I should get another strand. However, I decided not to buy them as I already have four strands, and I felt I was being greedy. Plus, while this strand was beautiful, I already have a 34" strand (I know, I know... it's silly to buy the exact same length again). Another reason... while I love long simple strands, the SA showed me a long double-strand with a pave flower on the side. It was so beautiful, and I needed to think about what next piece I really wanted vs. just collecting more strands. Even the SA said "you already have a lot of strands, this is different." She was right.

I hope you can see the beauty of akoyas in these photos, regardless of whether they are Mikimoto or not. I love Mikimoto, and yes, I know one can get pearls at much less the price. However, I stay with Mikimoto for all the reasons I posted earlier. It's all preference, and all fine akoyas glow. There is really no bad pearl. Pearls have a way of lighting up a person's skin, and near the face, pearls make your face glow. I am sure you know that by now after wearing your earrings! The earrings look gorgeous on you.
I hope this was helpful to show the glow and beauty of akoyas.

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Thank you so much for showing your necklace. I went to their boutique and tried on one of the long necklaces that can be worn double and I like it. Is it true that they don't grade their long necklace?
I also tried on their ear studs but they only have one uniform grading while in the NY boutique, they have 4 grades. I am disappointed with the boutiques in my city.

Can I call boutique in Japan or NY to directly order from them?

 

[BigAkoya]

Thank you so much for showing your necklace. I went to their boutique and tried on one of the long necklaces that can be worn double and I like it. Is it true that they don't grade their long necklace?
I also tried on their ear studs but they only have one uniform grading while in the NY boutique, they have 4 grades. I am disappointed with the boutiques in my city.

Can I call boutique in Japan or NY to directly order from them?

Hi! I'm in the US, so the store in the photo is the Mikimoto NYC. However, all strands in the US are graded. They are graded from A to AAA, and you are correct, there are four grades. I am not sure if NYC will ship out of country, but you could call ask. Ear studs are also graded in the US. I have two pairs, and both pairs are graded.

I don't understand how Mikimoto in your country does not grade a fine long strand of pearls. Two key categories factor into the price of a strand... the size of the pearl and the grade of the pearl. Depending on those two, a strand can be $2,000 or over $200,000, so it's a big range. The only thing I can think of is maybe they are Blue Lagoon? Mikimoto does a cheap line called Blue Lagoon by Mikimoto. The pearls are definitely not true Mikimoto quality, but they price is also a lot lower. The pearls are not graded, only the pearl size is listed. I thought the Blue Lagoon line was limited to the US, and only sold at Zales, which is a US jewelry chain mostly found in malls. Maybe check on that? However, I think you are shopping at a real Mikimoto boutique, and boutiques do not carry the cheap Blue Lagoon line. You can tell Blue Lagoon also by the clasp.. the clasp is different than the classic Mikimoto clasp. There is also no M charm.

If I were spending buying a strand of Mikimotos, I would want it graded. Can you ask your local store if you can get a certificate? In the US, the little tag on the strand (see photo above) has all the details, including the grading/size of the pearl/price. I think outside of the US, the little tag is probably not as common as it's viewed as "ugly." I have an idea... can you ask for a "US Certificate?" (for lack of a better term) The certificate will state the size of the pearl, the length, the exact number of pearls, and the overtone. That may be another option. I would ask if they can get you a certificate with the details of the pearl.

I would suggest the following... Gently and kindly talk to your SA and make these three points:
"I want to buy a strand" (hint hint... I am a sure thing, making it clear you are a buyer)
"I know the US has a certificate with the pearl size and grading" (hint hint... I am an educated Mikimoto shopper)
"I want to buy from you as you have been so kind helping me, but I am hesitant to do so without any documentation. Is it possible to get a certificate with the pearl detail" (hint hint... you may lose a sale).

See if that makes a diference and if they offer you options. SAs know consumers can buy anywhere, and they appreciate us giving them a chance to buy from them. After all, the worse transaction for a SA is one where the SA has spent a lot of time helping the person, and the person ends up buying elsewhere. SAs do not want to lose a potential sale, so I am hopeful the SA can try and do something to get you a certificate. That's the key for you, the certificate, so see if you can somehow get one.

Oh, if I may... I would like to point out one more thing... the M charm.
All strands come with the M charm. Depending on when they were strung, they are placed either 1 pearl out from the clasp, 3 pearls out, or several inches out. The newest position is several inches out. When you look at your strand, if you want the M charm moved, they can do that for you free of charge at the time of purchase. If you decide you want it moved later on, you can just ask them to move it when you have your pearls clean/restrung. Just FYI as a little tip... pay attention to where the M charm lands on the strand you like.

I am so glad you like a long strand! I find them so versatile and super easy to wear.
I hope this was helpful. I can't wait to see what you decide... I know it will be gorgeous!
I am so excited for you!

 

[eletons]

Hi! I'm in the US, so the store in the photo is the Mikimoto NYC. However, all strands in the US are graded. They are graded from A to AAA, and you are correct, there are four grades. I am not sure if NYC will ship out of country, but you could call ask. Ear studs are also graded in the US. I have two pairs, and both pairs are graded.

I don't understand how Mikimoto in your country does not grade a fine long strand of pearls. Two key categories factor into the price of a strand... the size of the pearl and the grade of the pearl. Depending on those two, a strand can be $2,000 or over $200,000, so it's a big range. The only thing I can think of is maybe they are Blue Lagoon? Mikimoto does a cheap line called Blue Lagoon by Mikimoto. The pearls are definitely not true Mikimoto quality, but they price is also a lot lower. The pearls are not graded, only the pearl size is listed. I thought the Blue Lagoon line was limited to the US, and only sold at Zales, which is a US jewelry chain mostly found in malls. Maybe check on that? However, I think you are shopping at a real Mikimoto boutique, and boutiques do not carry the cheap Blue Lagoon line. You can tell Blue Lagoon also by the clasp.. the clasp is different than the classic Mikimoto clasp. There is also no M charm.

If I were spending buying a strand of Mikimotos, I would want it graded. Can you ask your local store if you can get a certificate? In the US, the little tag on the strand (see photo above) has all the details, including the grading/size of the pearl/price. I think outside of the US, the little tag is probably not as common as it's viewed as "ugly." I have an idea... can you ask for a "US Certificate?" (for lack of a better term) The certificate will state the size of the pearl, the length, the exact number of pearls, and the overtone. That may be another option. I would ask if they can get you a certificate with the details of the pearl.

I would suggest the following... Gently and kindly talk to your SA and make these three points:
"I want to buy a strand" (hint hint... I am a sure thing, making it clear you are a buyer)
"I know the US has a certificate with the pearl size and grading" (hint hint... I am an educated Mikimoto shopper)
"I want to buy from you as you have been so kind helping me, but I am hesitant to do so without any documentation. Is it possible to get a certificate with the pearl detail" (hint hint... you may lose a sale).

See if that makes a diference and if they offer you options. SAs know consumers can buy anywhere, and they appreciate us giving them a chance to buy from them. After all, the worse transaction for a SA is one where the SA has spent a lot of time helping the person, and the person ends up buying elsewhere. SAs do not want to lose a potential sale, so I am hopeful the SA can try and do something to get you a certificate. That's the key for you, the certificate, so see if you can somehow get one.

Oh, if I may... I would like to point out one more thing... the M charm.
All strands come with the M charm. Depending on when they were strung, they are placed either 1 pearl out from the clasp, 3 pearls out, or several inches out. The newest position is several inches out. When you look at your strand, if you want the M charm moved, they can do that for you free of charge at the time of purchase. If you decide you want it moved later on, you can just ask them to move it when you have your pearls clean/restrung. Just FYI as a little tip... pay attention to where the M charm lands on the strand you like.

I am so glad you like a long strand! I find them so versatile and super easy to wear.
I hope this was helpful. I can't wait to see what you decide... I know it will be gorgeous!
I am so excited for you!

Thank you so much for the information. It seems like the buying experience in the US sounds professional. I will feel more comfortable if the pearls come with a certificate.

The only pearl strand they grade is the classic 16-18" one strand necklace. The long necklace I am interested in is around US 11000 without grading. From what I know, in Singapore, the SA didn't give certificate for a pair of ear studs. Not sure if the SA would have provided one if asked.

To me, mikimoto is not inexpensive. I don't know why they make the process so informal like you are buying from Asian wet market. Maybe there is a local trade secret organization here that make the rules. Mikimoto is not a local brand so they have to follow certain rules? Maybe they like the US market more so they spoil US buyers? Maybe the boutiques are just franchise. Too many maybes.

My jewelry journey is a tough one this year. Not sure how it unfolds later on.

 

[880]

@eletons, I would want a certificate from Mikimoto too.

someone recommended that I go to see necklaces at this boutique, has anyone heard of it?

Necklaces & Chains

Explore fine gold chains and necklaces for any style, featuring belcher chains, classic clip chains and statement mixed link chains to create the perfect piece.

foundrae.com

 

[jennlt]

@eletons, I would want a certificate from Mikimoto too.

someone recommended that I go to see necklaces at this boutique, has anyone heard of it?

Necklaces & Chains

Explore fine gold chains and necklaces for any style, featuring belcher chains, classic clip chains and statement mixed link chains to create the perfect piece.

foundrae.com

Yes, I have heard of Foundrae although I haven't been to their store. I've been considering buying one of their necklaces and have looked at them online at Net-A-Porter as well as the Foundrae website. Their aesthetic works perfectly with my casual style. I'd love to hear what you think if you visit their store!

 

[rosebean]

Here are three photos to show you akoyas and some additional pearl insight.
As you know by now, akoya pearls are known for their superior glow and luster. No other pearl can compete on the "glow" level.
Yes, South Seas are big, but bigger is not better to me. South Seas have more of a satin finish and do not have the glow of akoyas. Akoyas, especially fine akoyas, glow like glass The downside to akoyas is they only get as big as around 9.5mm in size, and that's it. Most strands you see are in the 5mm-7mm range. Anything over 8mm is considered "big" in akoya terms, 8.5mm is premium pricing, and 9.5mm is really big in akoya pearl speak, and of course the price matches that. So... "Big Akoya" stands for my love of big akoya pearls.

Below is a photo of me at my recent trip to Mikimoto a few months ago.
Mikimoto just got in a long strand of "big akoya" pearls, so I had to see them. The pearls are 9.5mm and the strand is 34" long. The price of the strand is $98,000.00.

In the photo, both strands I am wearing are 9.5mm in size. The longer strand is mine, and it is 38" long. The shorter one is the 34" strand, the one I went to see.

The second and third photo shows you the glow, the mirror finish. The shorter strand on the left is the boutique's, and the longer strand on the right is mine. Aren't they so gorgeous? Can you see the glow? The mirror finish? The last photo is the best photo, and they look even better in real life. I truly can stare at fine pearls all day long.

I love love love simple, classic strands. I wear them with everything... suits, shorts, jeans. Pearls literally go with everything. I thought for a three days if I should get another strand. However, I decided not to buy them as I already have four strands, and I felt I was being greedy. Plus, while this strand was beautiful, I already have a 34" strand (I know, I know... it's silly to buy the exact same length again). Another reason... while I love long simple strands, the SA showed me a long double-strand with a pave flower on the side. It was so beautiful, and I needed to think about what next piece I really wanted vs. just collecting more strands. Even the SA said "you already have a lot of strands, this is different." She was right.

I hope you can see the beauty of akoyas in these photos, regardless of whether they are Mikimoto or not. I love Mikimoto, and yes, I know one can get pearls at much less the price. However, I stay with Mikimoto for all the reasons I posted earlier. It's all preference, and all fine akoyas glow. There is really no bad pearl. Pearls have a way of lighting up a person's skin, and near the face, pearls make your face glow. I am sure you know that by now after wearing your earrings! The earrings look gorgeous on you.
I hope this was helpful to show the glow and beauty of akoyas.

View attachment 5302555

View attachment 5302556

View attachment 5302557

wow, they are really

Here are three photos to show you akoyas and some additional pearl insight.
As you know by now, akoya pearls are known for their superior glow and luster. No other pearl can compete on the "glow" level.
Yes, South Seas are big, but bigger is not better to me. South Seas have more of a satin finish and do not have the glow of akoyas. Akoyas, especially fine akoyas, glow like glass The downside to akoyas is they only get as big as around 9.5mm in size, and that's it. Most strands you see are in the 5mm-7mm range. Anything over 8mm is considered "big" in akoya terms, 8.5mm is premium pricing, and 9.5mm is really big in akoya pearl speak, and of course the price matches that. So... "Big Akoya" stands for my love of big akoya pearls.

Below is a photo of me at my recent trip to Mikimoto a few months ago.
Mikimoto just got in a long strand of "big akoya" pearls, so I had to see them. The pearls are 9.5mm and the strand is 34" long. The price of the strand is $98,000.00.

In the photo, both strands I am wearing are 9.5mm in size. The longer strand is mine, and it is 38" long. The shorter one is the 34" strand, the one I went to see.

The second and third photo shows you the glow, the mirror finish. The shorter strand on the left is the boutique's, and the longer strand on the right is mine. Aren't they so gorgeous? Can you see the glow? The mirror finish? The last photo is the best photo, and they look even better in real life. I truly can stare at fine pearls all day long.

I love love love simple, classic strands. I wear them with everything... suits, shorts, jeans. Pearls literally go with everything. I thought for a three days if I should get another strand. However, I decided not to buy them as I already have four strands, and I felt I was being greedy. Plus, while this strand was beautiful, I already have a 34" strand (I know, I know... it's silly to buy the exact same length again). Another reason... while I love long simple strands, the SA showed me a long double-strand with a pave flower on the side. It was so beautiful, and I needed to think about what next piece I really wanted vs. just collecting more strands. Even the SA said "you already have a lot of strands, this is different." She was right.

I hope you can see the beauty of akoyas in these photos, regardless of whether they are Mikimoto or not. I love Mikimoto, and yes, I know one can get pearls at much less the price. However, I stay with Mikimoto for all the reasons I posted earlier. It's all preference, and all fine akoyas glow. There is really no bad pearl. Pearls have a way of lighting up a person's skin, and near the face, pearls make your face glow. I am sure you know that by now after wearing your earrings! The earrings look gorgeous on you.
I hope this was helpful to show the glow and beauty of akoyas.

View attachment 5302555

View attachment 5302556

View attachment 5302557

wow, they are really beautiful, glow and luster indeed. thank you for sharing and spending time educating us (tpf community).

 

[rosebean]

Love this! It's the perfect size for that length chain! I know exactly which one this is from looking at the Tiffany site!

please share photos when you make the move.

 

[BigAkoya]

For Dior lovers...new pieces...
Dior new jewellery collection called Rose Dior Couture | The Jewellery Editor

 

[Notorious Pink]

Ugh. As you all know, I go to Mitchell’s at least once a month…my SA I’ve known forever and they always have good pieces in - I buy most of my basics there. There is a pair of pink Diamond Huggies and a matching bombe-style bracelet I’ve been sort-of-eyeing-but-not-really due to the price. Unfortunately i decided to try these emerald earrings on. I have NEVER seen emeralds this color. They are so clean inside!!!! I did not edit the color in this photo, but in person the color is uniform and is an electric green (like the fourth stone down on the left side). Obsessed again!

 

[BigAkoya]

Ugh. As you all know, I go to Mitchell’s at least once a month…my SA I’ve known forever and they always have good pieces in - I buy most of my basics there. There is a pair of pink Diamond Huggies and a matching bombe-style bracelet I’ve been sort-of-eyeing-but-not-really due to the price. Unfortunately i decided to try these emerald earrings on. I have NEVER seen emeralds this color. They are so clean inside!!!! I did not edit the color in this photo, but in person the color is uniform and is an electric green (like the fourth stone down on the left side). Obsessed again!
View attachment 5303594

You look great in colored gemstones!
I love colored gemstones, more so than diamonds really. Colored gemstones just pop!
The green is stunning on you.

 

[A bottle of Red]

Ugh. As you all know, I go to Mitchell’s at least once a month…my SA I’ve known forever and they always have good pieces in - I buy most of my basics there. There is a pair of pink Diamond Huggies and a matching bombe-style bracelet I’ve been sort-of-eyeing-but-not-really due to the price. Unfortunately i decided to try these emerald earrings on. I have NEVER seen emeralds this color. They are so clean inside!!!! I did not edit the color in this photo, but in person the color is uniform and is an electric green (like the fourth stone down on the left side). Obsessed again!
View attachment 5303594

Wow that looks perfect on you! The color , interesting shape, the length- it's really unique.

 

[cayman718]

Ugh. As you all know, I go to Mitchell’s at least once a month…my SA I’ve known forever and they always have good pieces in - I buy most of my basics there. There is a pair of pink Diamond Huggies and a matching bombe-style bracelet I’ve been sort-of-eyeing-but-not-really due to the price. Unfortunately i decided to try these emerald earrings on. I have NEVER seen emeralds this color. They are so clean inside!!!! I did not edit the color in this photo, but in person the color is uniform and is an electric green (like the fourth stone down on the left side). Obsessed again!

I love this! Emeralds are my favorite gemstones and these are gorgeous on you!

 

[Notorious Pink]

You look great in colored gemstones!
I love colored gemstones, more so than diamonds really. Colored gemstones just pop!
The green is stunning on you.

Thank you!!! the green really does pop. As you know, I’m very drawn to color. Im just trying to be a bit more practical lately. This winter I’ve been doing a lot of neutrals (dark gray, camel, black, cream) or basing outfits on a neutral and it’s soooo nice when everything matches so easily. Plus, I need to focus on my VCA…

Wow that looks perfect on you! The color , interesting shape, the length- it's really unique.

thank you! Yes, it’s perfect.

 

[Notorious Pink]

I love this! Emeralds are my favorite gemstones and these are gorgeous on you!

Thank you! I don’t usually love emeralds (even though they’re my birthstone) because often they’re cloudy or have inclusions. I usually go for clear and sparkly stones (blue zircon is a favorite). These are clear like tourmaline, which I thought they were due to the color (they’re bright like paraibas, just greener).

 

[A bottle of Red]

Thank you!!! the green really does pop. As you know, I’m very drawn to color. Im just trying to be a bit more practical lately. This winter I’ve been doing a lot of neutrals (dark gray, camel, black, cream) or basing outfits on a neutral and it’s soooo nice when everything matches so easily. Plus, I need to focus on my VCA…




thank you! Yes, it’s perfect.

Tbh i don't really see you in neutrals so much