The short version
- Typical range: £20 – £150
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Jewellery & Watches
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used pearl necklace is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for pearl necklaces, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £150 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £127 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £97 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £67 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £37 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a pearl necklace
- Genuine cultured or natural pearls rather than imitation
- Even matching in size, colour and lustre
- Original clasp in precious metal
- Recent restringing with knots between pearls
What lowers it
- Imitation pearls, which are worth very little
- Dull or peeling nacre
- Worn silk thread close to breaking
- Mismatched pearls from a repaired strand
How to work out what yours is worth
- Rub two pearls gently together — real ones feel slightly gritty, imitations glassy
- Check the clasp for precious metal hallmarks
- Look closely at the nacre for peeling near the drill holes
Once you have those three answers you can place your own pearl necklace on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if pearls are real?
Rub two together gently. Real pearls feel faintly gritty because of their layered nacre; imitations feel smooth and glassy.
Do pearls need restringing before selling?
If the thread is visibly worn or stretched, yes. It is inexpensive and prevents the strand breaking in transit.
Are imitation pearls worth selling?
They sell as costume jewellery for small sums. Describe them accurately — buyers in this market check.
More value guides: jewellery & watches guides · all value guides · browse live jewellery & watches listings.