Art Deco Petite Strand of Cultured Saltwater Pearls

About the Item

I purchased this brief (16 ½" ) strand of early cultured saltwater pearls many years ago when I imagined I would at some point have a niece to which I could give them on her sixteenth birthday, as though I were living in an Edith Wharton novel and not 1990s New York City. No niece ever appeared and the pearls look exactly as they did the day they hijacked my eyes with their stunning luster and sheen. Creamy off-white with gold overtones. These pearls have such thick nacre, they display one of the most beautiful phenomena in the world of gemology: orient. This is the spectral play of color that seems to radiate from deep within the pearl itself. Only natural pearls and cultured pearls with thick nacre display orient and even then, not all pearls do. 106 pearls comprise this necklace, graduating in size from approximately 2.5mm beside the clasp, to 3.92mm midway between the clasp and the center pearl, and 6.52mm for that largest central pearl. The strand weighs approximately 9.33 grams, which is quite heavy considering the length and size of the pearls. That weight is more in line with natural, un-cultured pearls. But early cultured pearls such as these remained in the water longer and developed thicker nacre in the process. That's why this strand of pearls displays such spectacular luster and sheen and that process quality known as orient. The 14K white gold clasp is entirely unique and quite brilliant. It can be easily opened or closed from either end, as you can see in the images. It says "Patented" but there is no number. However, I believe this necklace dates to the early 1930s. If quality rather than mere size is a priority, this is a strand you will absolutely appreciate. I do still believe that somewhere in the world, somebody has a niece on whom these pearls would look perfect. And of course, they would be correct on a bride as they would not compete with the neckline of any dress. The petite size makes their beauty subtle, though once observed undeniable. 16-inch strands of old pearls are a dime a dozen. Look through enough of those strands and you may well find a treasure, just like I did all those years ago.

Metal:

14k Gold

Stone:

Pearl

Stone Cut:

Bead

Weight:

9.33 g

Dimensions:

Length: 16.5 in (419.1 mm)

Style:

Art Deco