Well, I'd like to see in person why the $3500 ones are priced so much higher than the $1500 ones.

I think quality of the pigment is playing a significant role in the pricing and that just cannot be seen too well in a picture. It is quite an opportunity for those in a position to take the risks of the mud pond. I think one has to be a gambler in more ways than one. But, the pricing could prove quite reasonable for a guaranteed female nisai. If one hits all the quality points, it's a steal. Tough to say from photos, so there has to be a willingness to place reliance on the judgment of the breeder and dealer.