Past ASA International President Breaks Guinness World Record for Largest Collection of Pearls

Past ASA International President, Gary L. Smith, ASA, MGA, owner of Smith’s Jewelers in Montoursville, PA broke the Guinness World Record for largest collection pearls.

News of this accomplishment was reported in the September 17, 2021 edition of the Williamsport Sun-Gazette by reporter Mallorie McIlwain.

Barry S. Block, ASA, MGA and Antoinette Matlins, PG, FGA

 The collection included a total of 2,392 pearls  and were counted by Barry S. Block, ASA, MGA, and Antoinette Matlins, PG, FGA.

When asked about the pearls, Smith noted their incredible condition and uniqueness, and that ‘nothing like (the pearls) have been found before…even in early tombs.’

He further explained that the pearls were found on a Caribbean island and uncovered in a clay pot, and are thought to be tied to Christopher Columbus. They were most likely kept at the shore line to keep them damp and were buried for upwards of 550 years.

Some of the pearls also appear to have been “pierced” or drilled as well as previously used for religious ceremonies by the Indigenous people on the island.

Smith helped to certify and test the pearls as Smith’s Jewelers is one of 500 accredited laboratories to do these tests and certifications as well as one of two that have forensic gemologist capabilities.

Smith and the collection’s owner have been working together, speaking for the pearls ever since and are planning to do an auction of pieces of jewelry that Smith has made out of the pearls that were collected. A date for this auction is not yet determined.

Smith expressed what a great honor it’s been to work with the pearls and his excitement that they will be made available for others.

A book detailing the ‘secrets’ of these pearls is expected to be published soon.

Additional details about this amazing record and collection, including videos of the counting, may be viewed at https://thecolumbuspearls.com.