Vintage Faux-Pearl and Lucite Sautoir Necklace
Decorative art/Costume Jewelry • Unsigned vintage costume jewelry; possibly influenced by American designers like Monet, Trifari, or Miriam Haskell
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Retro Costume Jewelry
Medium & Technique
Faux-pearls with mottled resin/lucite beads and gold-tone metal wire-wrapping with link-chain construction
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1950s–1970s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 36 to 48 inches in length (sautoir/opera length), linear strand format
Subject Description
A long sautoir length necklace featuring alternating shapes including spherical 'pearls' and elongated marquise-shaped (navette) mottled cream-colored beads, connected by gold-plated links.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (visible surface wear consistent with age)
Estimated Market Value
USD 25.00 - USD 75.00
Auction Estimate
USD 15.00 - USD 50.00
Provenance History
Likely a mass-market or boutique production from the mid-century US or European market; common in estate collections of mid-to-late 20th-century jewelry.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the democratization of luxury fashion in the post-WWII era, where 'costume' jewelry utilized synthetic materials like Lucite and resins to mimic high-end ivory or semi-precious stones.
Notable Features
Distinctive elongated 'navette' beads and mixed-texture marbling in the cream-colored components; classic wire-loop assembly characteristic of mid-century mass production.
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions on beads, slight discoloration/patina on the metal links, potential thinning of the faux-pearl nacre/coating.
Conservation Recommendations
Store separately from other metal jewelry to prevent scratching; clean only with a soft, dry cloth; avoid contact with perfumes and hairsprays.