Antique Vintage Art Deco Retro 14k Yellow Gold Saltwater Akoya Pearl Necklace

Description

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and
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Listing description by: Dayna M.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000 - ,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 - 1950
Markings:
"14K" and unknown pictorial markers mark
on the clasp, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
13.9 grams
Metal Type:
14k yellow gold
Item Weight Value:
-- (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
Silk string
Main Stone:
Saltwater Akoya pearl
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter:
4.40 mm - 5.00 mm
Color:
lustrous cream hue
Accent Stone:
--
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
--
Stone Treatment:
The stone(s) appear to be untreated, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Naturally rounded and polished
Item Measurements:
Wearable length:
17.75"
Closure/Clasp Type:
Fishhook clasp
Link Type:
Saltwater Akoya pearls on silk string
Pendant Type
:
--
Notable Features:
This necklace was handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. The necklace is composed of a silk strand upon which saltwater Akoya pearls have been strung.
The use of such beautiful, lustrous pearls in this necklace is an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style, which rose to popularity during the Retro period. Eager to show off their wealth and style, Hollywood celebrities and socialites during this time would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring large and beautiful stones. The necklace was made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany designs that were influencing the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
There are eighty-eight saltwater Akoya pearls strung on this necklace which, as the name suggests, would have been hand-harvested off the coast of Japan before being imported to be made into jewelry. Each pearl is cream in hue
and displays a stunning luster as light moves across the bead. After being drilled through the middle and polished, the pearls were strung by hand on a white silk string. The jeweler took care to double-knot the string between each bead to prevent damage from friction or the loss of beads in case of a break.
Completing the necklace is a 14k yellow gold clam fishhook clasp, the warm hue of the metal a lovely contrast to the cream saltwater Akoya pearls. When worn, the necklace sits below the collarbone on most people.
A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, this necklace would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear. This necklace is in fabulous condition, however some pearls display very slight peeling which is hard to notice.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a period during which jewelry designers were largely influenced by the changes stemming from World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic vision with elements inspired by preceding periods, encompassing a variety of gemstones, shapes, and materials. Materials used commonly in Retro jewelry are gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. Designs can be masculine, geometric and modern, or softer, more feminine and floral.
The Hollywood Regency style came into fashion during the 1930s, ushered along by the Golden Age of Hollywood. This style was heralded by bright, contrasting colors and modernization of the opulence of Baroque styles, featuring a deliberately frivolous extravagance that screamed glitz and glamour. “Big girls need big diamonds” was taken to heart, and the gorgeous Hollywood stars decked themselves ap
propriately, with blindingly glittering jewels to showcase their lives of luxury.
Akoya saltwater pearls are cultured from the Akoya oyster and can be found primarily in Japan and China. They are known for their beautiful round shape and exquisite luster that sets them apart from many other types of pearls. They are usually white or cream in color but can have rose or silver undertones. During the Art Deco era, Akoya pearls were rare, expensive to own, and reserved for the richest of the rich.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
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