A natural pearl is far rarer than a cultured one, and its value is of another order. The distinction, established by X-ray, makes all the difference. The house examines and buys natural pearls — strands, drops, loose pearls, period jewels — by appointment in Paris at 22 rue Drouot or in London at 100 Hatton Garden.
Before the 1920s, every pearl was natural: the great strands of the Belle Époque and the Edwardian years, the drops of Art Deco earrings, the pearl-and-diamond tiaras. Since the cultured pearl, the two have been confused — and only a laboratory X-ray settles the question, pearl by pearl. The house examines the pearls, the clasp and the report if there is one; otherwise it tells you whether it is worth obtaining one. A fine natural strand is bought outright and paid the same day.
Complimentary first opinion on photographs, firm offer, same-day payment.
Period strands, sometimes with a signed clasp — Cartier, Boucheron, Chaumet.
The distinction, established by laboratory X-ray, makes the whole value; a report from LFG, SSEF or GIA is the reference.
Natural shapes and tints, in earrings, pendants and brooches.
Belle Époque, Edwardian and Art Deco brooches, earrings, rings and tiaras. Belle Époque and Edwardian.
LFG, SSEF and GIA reports are the reference for natural pearls; we direct you to a laboratory if needed.
Akoya, South Sea or Tahiti: another market, read in Paris — cultured pearl necklaces (in French).
By X-ray, in a laboratory. The natural pearl is far rarer and far more valuable.
It confirms the nature of the pearls and adds to the strand; we examine on the spot and direct you to a laboratory if needed.
Those of the LFG in Paris, the SSEF in Basel, and the GIA. Their reports establish, pearl by pearl, whether it is natural or cultured, saltwater or freshwater. For a strand of natural pearls, buyers expect one of them.
Bring it by appointment, or send photographs: a first opinion within 24 hours, complimentary. The firm offer is made on the piece itself.
Yes. The house receives in London by appointment at its office, 100 Hatton Garden, EC1N 8NX, in the jewellery quarter. Write first by WhatsApp or e-mail with photographs; the appointment is fixed around the house's visits.
Yes. Once agreement is reached, payment is made the same day, by bank transfer, whatever the amount — with no fees or commission.
To Altmann Collection, in Paris or in London. We examine the pearls, the clasp and, if there is one, the report that attests natural pearls; otherwise we tell you whether it is worth obtaining one. A first opinion is possible on photographs, by WhatsApp.
Verifiable facts, reviewed in October 2026. For a specific case, the appointment settles the matter.
A natural pearl grows around a grain; a cultured pearl around an implanted bead or tissue. Only an X-ray tells them apart, pearl by pearl — a strand is examined in full.
LFG in Paris, SSEF in Basel, GIA: their reports state, pearl by pearl, whether it is natural or cultured, saltwater or freshwater. For a natural strand, buyers expect one of them.
A seller is paid by bank transfer or cheque: French law does not allow cash for this trade. Expect a dated purchase document, and nothing deducted from the figure agreed. French law requires a dealer in precious objects to record each purchase and the identity of the seller. Bring a passport or identity card: it protects you as much as us.
Complimentary and confidential first opinion within 24 hours; then an appointment in Paris or London.
Request an opinion+33 7 81 11 49 29