Opal Bead Necklace
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold-filled
21st Century and Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Fire Opal, 22k Gold
2010s American Victorian Beaded Necklaces
Labradorite, Pearl, Opal
20th Century Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 10k Gold, White Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Beaded Necklaces
Emerald, Onyx, Opal
2010s American Victorian Beaded Necklaces
Pearl, Black Pearl, Opal, Blue Sapphire
21st Century and Contemporary North American Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Aquamarine, Opal, 14k Gold, Gold-filled, Bronze
2010s American Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Aquamarine, Opal, 14k Gold, Gold-filled, Bronze
21st Century and Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold
Early 20th Century British Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 18k Gold, Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Beaded Necklaces
Moonstone, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Coral, Ruby, Opal, Black Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century European Artisan Multi-Strand Necklaces
Opal, Pearl, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Artisan Multi-Strand Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
2010s American Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary German Arts and Crafts Chain Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
2010s Dutch Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Black Opal, 18k Gold
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Labradorite, Opal, Gold Plate
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal
2010s African Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Labradorite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s African Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Spinel, Yellow Gold
2010s European Modern Beaded Necklaces
Pink Sapphire, Fire Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, Peridot, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Ethiopian Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 14k Gold
2010s Beaded Necklaces
Agate, Opal, Silver
2010s Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Silver
2010s American Victorian Beaded Necklaces
Labradorite, Opal, Pearl
2010s American Victorian Beaded Necklaces
Labradorite, Opal, Pearl
2010s American Contemporary Chain Necklaces
Aquamarine, Opal, 14k Gold, Gold-filled, Bronze
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Chrysophrase, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s European Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Peruvian Modern Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
2010s Chinese Artist Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, White Gold
2010s British Retro Beaded Necklaces
Lapis Lazuli, Diamond, Opal, Rock Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
2010s European Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Pink Sapphire, Tanzanite, Amethyst, Fire Opal, Rainbow Moonstone, ...
2010s European Modern Beaded Necklaces
Pink Sapphire, Citrine, Opal, Agate, Chalcedony, Moonstone, Morganite, R...
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Coral, Black Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Tanzanian Modern Beaded Necklaces
Tanzanite, Fire Opal, Yellow Gold
20th Century Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Ethiopian Modern Beaded Necklaces
Blue Sapphire, Opal, Fire Opal, Rainbow Moonstone, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Spinel, Bronze
21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan Beaded Necklaces
Moonstone, Opal, Pearl, Rainbow Moonstone, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
2010s American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Spinel, Bronze
21st Century and Contemporary American Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Sterling Silver
21st Century and Contemporary German Arts and Crafts Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
21st Century and Contemporary American Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Sterling Silver
2010s Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Yellow Gold
2010s American Victorian Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold Plate
2010s American Art Deco Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Sterling Silver
Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Beaded Necklaces
Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2010s Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold
21st Century and Contemporary German Arts and Crafts Beaded Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
- 1
Opal Bead Necklace For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Opal Bead Necklace?
The Legacy of Opal in Jewelry Design
Opals were discovered in 400 BC, and since then five types have been found throughout the world. Before you start shopping for mysteriously beautiful vintage opal rings and other opal jewelry, learn about the different varieties of the gem — and find out which historical figure was reportedly willing to trade his kingdom for a single stone.
Here is a little riddle for you: the month of October has two birthstones, but only one of them encompasses the colors of other birthstones. If you guessed opal, you’re right! (The other gemstone associated with the month of October is tourmaline.)
Opals are such unusual gemstones that there are too many old-wives tales associated with them, like if you’re a blond, wearing an opal necklace will protect your locks from losing color. Opals were also very fashionable in the early 19th century, up until the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geierstein in 1829. The title heroine wears an opal and succumbs to an untimely death. However, the British monarchy, and in particular Queen Victoria, did not let this story get in their way, and they frequently gifted opals to friends and family members. October babies should disregard the noise and proudly wear their opals!
There are five types of precious opals: boulder opal, fire opal, crystal/water opal, black opal, and white/light opal. Each variety is distinguished by its color.
So, where does the name come from? The word opal is thought to originate from the Roman opalus or from the Sanskrit úpala (“precious stone”) or from the Greek opallios (“to see a color change”). So while there have been many names for the stones, opals were first discovered in 400 BC in Ethiopia. But the early reference that comes up most often in history books is from the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder, who wrote about it in 75 AD. In his text he refers to it as opali. The Romans were big fans of opal, Mark Antony was so enamored by it that, as the story goes, he was willing to trade a portion of his kingdom for a single opal.
There's a wide variety of antique and vintage opal jewelry on 1stDibs (and you won't have to trade your kingdom for it).
Finding the Right Necklaces for You
We are fortunate to know much of the world’s long and dazzling history of necklaces, as this type of jewelry was so treasured that it was frequently buried with its owners. Today, Van Cleef necklaces, Tiffany necklaces and Cartier necklaces are some of the most popularly searched designer necklaces on 1stDibs.
Lapis lazuli beads adorned necklaces unearthed from the royal graves at the ancient Iraqi civilization of Sumer, while the excavation of King Tut’s burial chamber revealed a sense of style that led to a frenzy of Art Deco designs, with artisans of the 1920s seeking to emulate the elegant work crafted by Ancient Egypt’s goldsmiths and jewelry makers.
In ancient times, pendant necklaces worn by royalty and nobles conferred wealth and prestige. Today, wearing jewelry is about personal expression: Luxury diamond necklaces exude confidence and can symbolize the celebratory nature of a deep romantic relationship, while paper-clip chain-link necklaces designed by the likes of goldsmith Faye Kim are firmly planted in the past as well as the present. Kim works exclusively with eco-friendly gold, and these fashionable, fun accessories owe to the design of 19th-century watch fobs.
For some, necklaces are thought of as being a solely feminine piece, but this widely loved accessory has been gender-neutral for eons. In fact, just as women rarely took to wearing a single necklace during the Renaissance, men of the era layered chains and valuable pendants atop their bejeweled clothing. In modern times, the free-spirited hippie and counterculture movements of the 1960s saw costume-jewelry designers celebrating self-expression through colorful multistrand necklaces and no shortage of beads, which were worn by anyone and everyone.
Even after all of these years, the necklace remains an irrefutable staple of any complete outfit. Although new trends in jewelry are constantly emerging, the glamour and beauty of the past continue to inform modern styles and designs. In a way, the cyclical history of the necklace differs little from its familiar looped form: The celebrated French jewelry house Van Cleef & Arpels found much inspiration in King Tut, and, now, their Alhambra collection is a go-to for modern royals. Vintage David Webb necklaces — whose work landed him on the cover of Vogue in 1950, two years after opening his Manhattan shop — were likely inspired by the ornamental styles of ancient Greece, Mesopotamia and Egypt.
On 1stDibs, browse top designers like Dior, Chanel and Bulgari, or shop by your favorite style, from eye-catching choker necklaces to understated links to pearl necklaces and more.
- What is a Samoan bead necklace?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023A Samoan bead necklace is a type of jewelry produced by the Indigenous people of Samoa, an island nation located in the Pacific Ocean. Also called ula, the necklace features natural materials like leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, shells and whale's teeth. Visitors arriving in Samoa are often presented with ula necklaces as a sign of welcome. Explore a variety of bead necklaces on 1stDibs.
- What do amber bead necklaces do?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Amber bead necklaces are believed to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Amber is a fossilized tree resin that contains succinic acid. Many believe that when amber is heated against the body, it releases the acid onto the skin where it is absorbed, providing a boost to the body’s immune system. Find an assortment of amber bead necklaces on 1stDibs.
- Why do guys wear bead necklaces?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 1, 2023Why guys wear bead necklaces varies. Bead necklaces may represent a person's cultural heritage, as many artisans from Africa and North American Indigenous tribes produce intricate handmade bead necklaces. In addition, bead necklaces have become associated with certain fashion styles, including surfer and boho. Men may also wear bead necklaces because they like their appearance. Find a large selection of bead necklaces on 1stDibs.
Read More
This Victorian Necklace Features a Rainbow of Gems
If jewelry could talk, we know this piece would have good stories.
A Centuries-Old Style, Lockets Have Never Lost Their Romantic Appeal
Emblems of heartfelt emotion, elegant vessels for photos and keepsakes and perfect for layering, these special ornaments are an essential component of any thoughtfully curated jewelry collection.
This Van Cleef & Arpels Necklace Is an Heirloom in the Making
With more than 100 carats of diamonds, this vintage stunner converts into different styles, making it as versatile as it is breathtaking.
[Survey] Two-Thirds of Jewelry Gift Recipients Don’t Want to Be Surprised
Givers of fine gems enjoy surprise more than receivers, and women more than men. Find out what else our survey of 3,000 Americans revealed.
Next-Level Pearls That Go Well Beyond the Expected
Organic shapes, surprising textures, shimmering colors and inventive embellishments take the new generation of pearl jewelry from classic to cutting-edge.
7 Vibrant Jewels for a Breezy Late-Summer Wardrobe
Soak up the pleasures of the season with a these bold gems.
Whether Worn Alone or Layered, These Chain Link Necklaces Are Trending
Learn more about the stylish links that have passed the test of time.
Meet the Dapper, Mustachioed Parisian Who’s Tops in Crafting Enticing Jewels
After more than a decade creating the iconic Lanvin gems of the Alber Elbaz years, designer Elie Top dove into the world of fine jewelry, mixing silver and gold to create his own striking, timeless look.