GUEST: My mother was given it by my father, I presume in the 1950s. And I really know nothing at all about it except that my mother gave it to me, and I love it.
APPRAISER: The style is 17th century Spanish, but it's 18th century.
GUEST: Okay.
APPRAISER: Your necklace is woven filigree gold, and it's probably a very high karat, easily 18 karat. You'd have to test it to make sure.
GUEST: Right.
APPRAISER: And therein with rose diamonds, which was very popular at the time. Unfortunately, nobody knows who made these. They were made in Spain, some were made in Portugal-- not quite as good quality-- and that's about all we know. Now, there are a couple problems with it. Unfortunately, you've got soft solder repair on the back. Fortunately, it doesn't show from the front. The only thing that shows from the front is one little pendant missing on the bottom. The box appears to be original except the fabric looks as if it's been changed, and a later fabric. The way it is now, retail today it's worth something in the neighborhood of $12,000 to $15,000.
GUEST: You're joking? Oh, my God.
APPRAISER: No, no.
GUEST: I thought you were going to tell me a thousand, tops.
APPRAISER: No, no, no, no, no.
GUEST: Oh, my gosh.
APPRAISER: And it might cost, if they can do it properly, about $3500 to restore it. And then your $30-3$5,000 if they do a proper job when they’re finished.
GUEST: You’re kidding. Oh my gosh. That’s unbelievable. I’m absolutely gobsmacked. Completely gobsmacked, I had no idea. Thank you. Oh, my gosh, you’ve blown me away. Absolutely shocked.
