The Mikimoto bi-annual sale always draws a crowd and this season was no different. I had to wait nearly an hour yesterday (the first day of the sale) before I had the opportunity to survey the gems. The sale is being held at their Fifth Avenue showroom which is quite small. With the crush of the crowd, trying to get a peak at the glass cases was difficult.
You’ll find quite a selection of Mikimoto and its lower-end line Blue Lagoon (sold at stores such as Zales) from 50 to up to 80 percent off the retail price. Good luck finding anything at 80 percent off, tho. When I asked about that, the sales associate told me he had already sold the last Mikimoto piece (a necklace) at that bargain price. Many of the jewels (especially the Mikimoto) are going for 50 percent off. However, there was quite a selection at 60 to 65 percent off for Blue Lagoon. I found necklaces by Blue Lagoon for under $200 and earrings at under $300. I was interested in finding a strand of pearls… a Mikimoto minuette can be had for $516 (originally $1032). But those pearls were too tiny for me so I looked at a Mikimoto princess pearl strand but the price was a bit too much at $1,480 (originally $2,960). A double-strand Mikimoto bracelet caught my eye (on sale for $920, originally $1840) but even that was still too much for my budget. I spotted Mikimoto studs going for $920 (originally $1840). One woman was looking at a long Blue Lagoon pearl strand going for $1,000.
Overall, I was disappointed by the selection and discount. However, many shoppers were leaving with purchases. To be honest, I didn’t leave empty handed, I picked up a gift for my mother.
I must add that the sales staff were very helpful and patient with the mob of shoppers. One of the SA’s told me that they will be replenishing the stock, but more of the same styles… Sale ends this Sunday.
Where/When: 680 Fifth Avenue, 4th Floor, (b/w 53rd & 54th Streets). 212-457-4500. Thur Sunday January 23rd. Fri (10-7), Sat (10-5p), Sun (10-3p). Credit Card Only. No cash or checks.
Hey Sally, great video! I went yesterday and got there at 11:45, and waited 1 1/2 hours. I was probably 60th in line… anyway I was disappointed with the selection as they seemed to offer fewer items compared to their last sale, and last time I went on the last day. I was looking for pearl strands and was told they didn’t have many to start with, and was told they would not be restocking. Even with 50%-70% off (I agree I didn’t see any 80% off), prices were still pretty steep!
Ha! I bought the double stranded bracelet. I got the “cheap”er 1 though ($710). I asked the guy for the least expensive in the bunch. It still hurt paying for it though. I never really buy nice jewelry so I guess it’s an investment piece. Or at least that’s what I’m telling myself
Good for you, KT! I really liked the double-strand bracelets. I almost pulled out the wallet but I told myself to walk away… In any case, congrats on your purchase, the bracelet is lovely – one of the nicer pieces there.