Drop Necklaces
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
1970s American Late Victorian Vintage Drop Necklaces
Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
20th Century American Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
1940s Unknown Vintage Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
2010s American Contemporary Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Late 19th Century Italian Victorian Antique Drop Necklaces
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver
Vintage Drop Necklaces
Also called Y necklaces as they are designed to hang a certain way, vintage drop necklaces are striking and adaptable. They can enhance everything from a casual sweater-and-jeans combo to an elegant heels-and-evening-dress pairing.
Adornment is an ancient human practice, with archeologists identifying early jewelry made from bones, claws and shells. As technology has advanced, so too have jewelry designs and the design of necklaces, from the simple to the intricate.
Drop necklaces come from lariat-style necklaces, which are chain necklaces that end in a tassel or pendant. A drop necklace’s design, meanwhile, is long with open ends, and it usually does not have a clasp. It consists of a single chain that wraps around the neck and a centerpiece — sometimes featuring a diamond or pearls — that hangs down to the middle of the chest. Drop necklaces frequently come in lengths from 16 to 20 inches, with the vertical lines making them appear longer than other necklaces of the same length.
Drop necklaces are extremely versatile, able to be worn knotted, draped or looped. They can be chunky statement pieces or thin, minimal designs. The range of drop necklaces that can be found on 1stDibs can accentuate the plunging necklines of modern looks or add flair to a basic ensemble.