Don Lucas Jewelry
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Vintage 1980s American Native American Beaded Necklaces
Turquoise, Sterling Silver
Finding the Right beaded-necklaces for You
Whether they’re chunky, statement-making accessories or a single strand of the understated sort, antique and vintage beaded necklaces are versatile pieces of jewelry. Indeed, the unique beaded necklaces in your jewelry box likely go with everything, from casual summer tops and shorts to dazzling evening gowns.
From the fish-bone and seashell jewelry of the prehistoric era to the breathtaking amulets and pendants of ancient Egypt to modern sapphire beads, people have been accessorizing with beaded necklaces for eternity.
Beaded necklaces — as well as other kinds of necklaces — were common in prehistoric times. Personal adornment was important, and jewelry was made for every part of the body. Beadwork is among the best known art forms attributed to Native Americans, and just as they had for saddlery and clothing, early populations would fashion beads for necklaces with stone tools or instruments made of wood. The making of colorful glass beads for beaded necklaces likely originated in Venice, Italy, during the 14th century, particularly given the growth of the decorative glass industry on the series of Venetian islands called Murano. During the Neolithic period, humans were buried with coral beaded necklaces from the Mediterranean, even as far north as the Alps.
Whether you’re seeking the pop of color you’ll get in a double-row jade beaded necklace from the Art Deco era — which encompasses the 1920s and ’30s and ushered in a very distinct look in jewelry design — or perhaps a simple strand of pearls for a blouse that leaves your neck bare, remember that different necklines call for different pieces of jewelry.
When accessorizing with a beaded necklace, a long piece with a pendant will likely pair best with your favorite vintage V-neck dress or V-neck tee, while beaded chokers and collar necklaces are a stylish fit for strapless tops. Bigger beads will hit your neckline in a different way than a more minimalist necklace might, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. Choose colors you like and pick items that will go with what is in your closet. When the occasion calls for it, don’t be afraid to stack. “More is more” for some, so pairing a delicate strand with a bolder piece might be the move for you.
On 1stDibs, find a collection of pearl beaded necklaces, antique emerald beaded necklaces, diamond beaded necklaces and more.
- What does jewelry do?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Jewelry can do many things. Jewelry has long been a symbol of spiritual strength, wealth or power and, of course, a means of personal expression. Specific pieces of jewelry can enhance a person's appearance. For example, dangling earrings can help lengthen the look of the face, while choker necklaces can shorten the appearance of a long neck. The right jewelry can add texture and pops of color to outfits and draw attention to the wearer. In some cases, jewelry can have a symbolic meaning, the way an engagement ring is a reminder of a promise to marry, and a cross necklace is often a sign of religious faith. Shop a large collection of jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022How you define high jewelry versus fine jewelry is largely a matter of personal opinion because the terms do not have formal definitions. Generally, fine jewelry is any piece of jewelry carefully crafted out of precious materials like metal and gemstones. High jewelry is a term used by collectors to describe jewelry of significant value. Exceptional craftsmanship, one-of-a-kind signs and highly sought pieces may fall under the category. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of antique and vintage jewelry.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Quality and rarity define the difference between fine jewelry and high jewelry. Any jewelry that features fine materials, like precious metals and gemstones, may be considered fine jewelry. The term high jewelry usually refers to one-of-a-kind jewelry that is often crafted entirely or partially by hand. Shop a diverse assortment of jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is Frivole jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023Frivole jewelry is a line produced by the luxury jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels. In French, frivole means frivolous or light and cheerful, and the term perfectly reflects the airy, whimsical quality of pieces in the Frivole collection. The line features a recurring floral motif with heart-shaped petals that sparkle with pavé gemstones or surround gemstone centers. On 1stDibs, shop a range of Van Cleef & Arpels Frivole jewelry.
- What is Solje jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Solje jewelry is a type of decorative accessory that originates from Norway. Most designs are sterling silver and feature dangling oval-shaped embellishments made of enamel or gold called spoons. Shop a range of Solje jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is Stambolian jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Stambolian jewelry refers to decorative accessories like rings and pendants produced by the luxury brand Stambolian. Armenian designer Harry Stambolian founded his company in New York, New York, during the 1980s and is known for producing gemstone jewelry that shows off elements of traditional Armenian architecture and design. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Stambolian jewelry.
- What is intaglio jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Intaglio jewelry is jewelry that features a central stone on which an artisan carves artwork on the back. This creates a recessed image when a viewer examines the jewelry from the front. It differs from the raised reliefs on cameo jewelry. Shop a range of intaglio jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is guilloche jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Guilloche jewelry consists of intricate concentric designs engraved onto metal through a lathe machine. These elaborate designs are covered by translucent enamel. Shop vintage and contemporary guilloche jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is retro jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021Retro jewelry is jewelry created in the late 1930s and early 1940s. These pieces were heavily influenced by the changes accompanying World War II. Retro jewelry is known for its futuristic, geometric elements. Shop retro jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is Pinchbeck jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Pinchbeck jewelry looks very similar to gold in appearance but is instead made of brass. It was traditionally used when there was risk of theft, such as on stagecoaches.
- Is Piaget a jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Piaget is a Swiss luxury brand known for its watches and other jewelry. The brand’s origins go back to the mid-19th century, and they still operate today with many enthusiasts worldwide. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Piaget watches and jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is a jewelry clasp?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 5, 2021A jewelry clasp is a fastener with the purpose to clutch the jewelry and hold it in place. Its mechanism allows jewelry such as necklaces or bracelets to fasten and also to be removed easily without causing damage. Visit 1stDibs to find a variety of jewelry with different types of clasps for a perfect fit.
- What is HW jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022HW jewelry is an abbreviation for Harry Winston jewelry. In 1932, jewelry maker Harry Winston founded the company as Harry H. Winston Jewels, Inc. It began operating under its current name in 1936. You'll find a collection of Harry Winston jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is interchangeable jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Interchangeable jewelry can be adjusted to create different pieces depending on what style of jewelry you want that day. For interchangeable earrings, necklaces, bracelets and cuff links, the focal jewel or element can be replaced with a different color or style to suit your look. Shop a range of interchangeable jewelry on 1stDibs.
- What is acrostic jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Acrostic jewelry spells a word by using the first letter of the gemstones used in the piece. For example, a piece of jewelry could say the word ‘regard’ by using a ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, another ruby, and lastly a diamond. Shop a collection of acrostic jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is VCA in jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The mark ‘VCA’ on a piece of jewelry is the brand name stamp of Van Cleef & Arpels. Van Cleef & Arpels is a French company renowned for exceptional quality and luxury in their materials and designs. Shop a range of professionally authenticated Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Where is Lagos jewelry from?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Lagos jewelry comes from factories located in Hong Kong and Bangkok, Thailand. The headquarters of the luxury jewelry maker are located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Steven Lagos founded the company in 1977. You can find a collection of Lagos jewelry on 1stDibs.
- Who invented jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024It's not possible to say for certain who invented jewelry. Anthropologists have determined that our neanderthal ancestors produced jewelry out of natural materials. One of the oldest examples of jewelry is a necklace fashioned out of seashell beads, estimated to be around 115,000 years old. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of antique, vintage and contemporary jewelry.
- What is convertible jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022A product of the Art Deco era, convertible jewelry is that which can change from one form to another. A necklace can become earrings, or a ring can become a bracelet. Van Cleef and Arpel are one of the most famous designers of convertible jewelry, with some elaborate designs taking a decade to create. Shop a collection of convertible jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- What is a lavalier jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021The term lavalier jewelry originally referred to jewelry in the form of a pendant worn around the neck. The lavalier, which came into fashion in the 17th century, was usually a small, jeweled gold locket, though it could also be an enameled locket or pendant. Find a collection of antique and vintage lavalier on 1stDibs.