Why it's difficult to give a precise value:
* Rarity and Collectibility: Edith Rehnborg was the wife of Carl Rehnborg, the founder of Nutrilite, and later Double X supplement businesses that became part of Amway. While Amway is a well-known brand, Edith Rehnborg pearls are not widely known or highly sought-after as collectibles.
* Pearl Quality is Key: The value of any pearls (whether associated with a famous person or not) hinges on the pearl quality.
* Limited Market: There is no widespread, established market for "Edith Rehnborg Pearls." Unless they've been authenticated and sold at a major auction with provenance, determining a market value is difficult.
Factors Affecting Pearl Value (Regardless of History):
* Pearl Type:
* Natural Pearls: Extremely rare and valuable.
* Cultured Pearls: More common.
* Akoya Pearls: Classic round, white/cream. Generally smaller (2-10mm).
* Freshwater Pearls: Highly varied in shape, size, and color. Generally less expensive.
* South Sea Pearls: Large, lustrous, often gold or white. Expensive.
* Tahitian Pearls: Dark (black, gray, green, purple). Expensive.
* Size: Larger pearls are typically more valuable.
* Shape: Perfectly round pearls are generally more desirable (especially in Akoya). Symmetrical shapes are favored.
* Luster: The shine and brilliance of the pearl. High luster is crucial.
* Surface Quality: Blemishes, spots, or imperfections significantly decrease value.
* Nacre Thickness: Nacre is the coating around the bead in cultured pearls. The thicker the nacre, the more durable and lustrous the pearl. Thin nacre can make the pearl dull and prone to chipping.
* Color: Varies depending on the type of pearl. Some colors are rarer and more desirable.
* Matching: For strands or sets, the uniformity of size, shape, color, and luster is important. Well-matched strands are more valuable.
* Clasp/Setting: The metal and any gemstones in the clasp or setting contribute to the overall value.
How to Get an Appraisal:
1. Photographs: Take clear, well-lit photos of the pearls, clasp, and any accompanying documentation.
2. Pearl Type Identification: Try to determine what type of pearls they are. The characteristics can help you make an educated guess (e.g., size, shape, color).
3. Seek Professional Appraisal: The best way to determine the value of pearls is to have them appraised by a qualified gemologist or appraiser specializing in pearls.
* Look for appraisers with certifications from organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Society of Appraisers (ASA).
* Be sure the appraiser has experience with pearls.
* Ask about their fees and how they determine value.
Summary:
While the association with Edith Rehnborg *might* add a *small* amount to the value for a collector of Amway memorabilia, the primary value will be based on the pearl quality itself. Get a professional appraisal to determine the pearl type, quality, and current market value.