Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic mid-century graduated strand of cultured Akoya pearls, tapering elegantly from a larger central pearl to smaller pearls near the clasp. The necklace is secured with a vintage sterling silver filigree fishhook clasp stamped with the maker's mark 'NAOMI'.
Story
Post-WWII Japan saw a massive boom in pearl exports, transforming these ocean gems into the ultimate mid-century status symbol. This strand represents the classic 'coming of age' gift given to young women in the 1950s.
Maker / Origin
The clasp is marked 'NAOMI', a brand of the Naomi Jewelry Manufacturing Co. based in Island Park, New York, which was highly active in the mid-20th century producing quality findings, clasps, and jewelry components for the American market. The pearls themselves are classic Japanese Akoyas, which dominated the global market during this era.
Condition & Value
The pearls exhibit a warm, creamy body color with rose overtones and good luster, showing minor natural surface blemishes. The silk thread shows slight stretching near the clasp, which is typical for vintage strands; restringing is recommended for secure wear. The clasp shows light tarnish consistent with age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.