DATE: Art Deco, c.1920

A stunning natural pearl necklace dating from the Art Deco period, circa 1920. The stones are well matched and graduated towards the middle, and it's complete with the original diamond set clasp in 18 karat gold and millegrain platinum. Superb quality and the stones are certified as natural.

Natural pearls must be one of nature's finest wonders. They've been prized as gemstones for their beauty and scarcity since ancient times, indeed the very word pearl itself has become a metaphor for something rare, valuable, admirable, and beautiful. Composed of layer upon layer of calcium and conchiolin (aka nacre), natural pearls such as these are grown within the soft tissue of certain mollusks (clams, oysters, mussels etc.); they're a defense mechanism against a potentially threatening irritant or parasite within the shell. So, essentially, a pearl is the final incarnation of a bivalve's immune response to an unwanted guest within the shell. Couldn't make it up.

STONES 

122 certified natural pearls (saltwater) - ranging from 5.33mm to 2.2mm

Transitional cut diamonds

MEASUREMENTS 

Wearable length: 18 inches

Clasp: 18.0 x 7.2mm

WEIGHT 

6.8g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 18k gold and platinum

CONDITION 

Very good