Antique Vintage Deco Retro 14k Yellow Gold Ox Blood Coral Beaded Bead Necklace

Description

This necklace is part of a set with a matching pair of earrings and bracelet, which we also have up for auction this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Ox Blood Coral" under our auction items.
Listing description by: Cait P.
The Piece
Auction Estimate:
,000 - ,000
Age Circa:
Retro C. 1940 - 1950
Markings:
Unmarked,
tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin:
Unknown
Brand:
Unknown
Gram Weight:
63.9 grams
Metal Type:
14k yellow gold
Item Weight Value:
-- (value all-inclusive weight)
Material:
Silk string
Main Stone:
Ox blood coral
Main Stone Measurements/Color:
Diameter
: 8.3 mm to 9.9 mm
Color:
opaque deep red hue
Accent Stone:
--
Accent Stone Measurements/Color:
--
Stone Treatment:
It is possible the stones have been enhanced or treated for color, but we are not certified gemologists. Stone(s) have been tested and guaranteed using a professional Presidium Duo refractive, heat, and hardness tester.
Stone Cuts:
Polished round beads
Item Measurements:
Wearable length:
28"
Closure/Clasp Type:
This necklace lacks a clasp and is meant to be worn over the head
Link Type:
Coral beads on silk string
Pendant Type
:
--
Notable Features:
This necklace was handmade during the Retro period of the Art Deco era. The necklace is composed of a silk string and features 14k yellow gold and ox blood coral beads. The use of so many colorful, valuable coral
stones in this piece
is an excellent example of the Hollywood Regency style, which rose to popularity during the Retro period.
Eager to show off their wealth and style, Hollywood celebrities and socialites during this time would adorn themselves with glamorous jewelry, usually featuring large and beautiful stones. The necklace was made in the style of Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany designs that were influencing the Hollywood Regency style, making the viewer think of the likes of Ava Gardner and Katharine Hepburn.
Seventy-three
ox blood coral beads adorn the necklace, all of which display the rich, opaque red hue so prized in this variety of coral. The coral would have been hand-harvested off the southern coast of China before being imported to be made into jewelry. Each coral stone was carved by hand into a round, polished bead before being strung by hand on a red silk string, the jeweler taking care to double-knot the string between each bead to prevent damage from friction or the loss of beads in case of a break.
Six 14k yellow gold beads are also strung on the bracelet. Four of the beads are small and round while the remaining two are larger and oblong. These beads all have a scalloped appearance and contrast nicely against the rich red of the ox blood coral stones. When worn, the necklace dangles down the chest to rest against the décolletage on most people. A classic example of Hollywood Regency jewelry from the Retro period, this necklace would make a valuable addition to any antique jewelry collection. as would its matching earrings and bracelet. Don't miss your chance to preserve this piece of cultural history.
Damage:
Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
Retro jewelry refers to pieces created in the 1940s and 1950s. This was a period during which jewelry designers were largely influenced by the changes stemming from World War II. These designs reflect an infusion of futuristic vision with elements inspired by preceding periods, encompassing a variety of gemstones, shapes, and materials. Materials used commonly in Retro jewelry are gold, gold alloys, and silver as the wartime put a restriction on the use of platinum. Designs can be masculine, geometric and modern, or softer, more feminine and floral.
The Hollywood Regency style came into fashion during the 1930s, ushered along by the Golden Age of Hollywood. This style was heralded by bright, contrasting colors and modernization of the opulence of Baroque styles, featuring a deliberately frivolous extravagance that screamed glitz and glamour. “Big girls need big diamonds” was taken to heart, and the gorgeous Hollywood stars decked themselves ap
propriately, with blindingly glittering jewels to showcase their lives of luxury.
Ox blood coral is incredibly rare and is known for its bright red hue. The coral can be found in the South Sea of China. This lovely type of coral was used by Chinese stonecutters while they created jewelry both for the Native tribes of China and for Chinese export. Large pieces of Ox Blood coral are incredibly rare, making large pieces of ox blood coral highly sought after.
Domestic US
: All items ship within one business day of receiving payment. Buyers will have 3 base shipping options to choose from, depending on the needed speed of delivery. Pricing on single and multi-purchase transactions can be seen below:
Auction Items:
Base shipping + .00 per additional gold item & BIN items combine for free
BIN Items:
FREE
Base Shipping:
USPS
First Class
: .00 fully insured, estimated 3-5 business days
USPS
Priority Mail
: .00 fully insured, estimated 2-3 business days
USPS
Priority Express
: .00 fully insured, overnight delivery
International
: All packages are sent via USPS and pricing is based on buyer location. Each customer will receive a revised invoice at the close of the auction with an updated shipping rate. We will combine shipping on multiple purchases for free.
We do not undervalue packages for customs, please do not ask us to do so. What you pay is what we will claim on your customs form.
Please take this into consideration before placing your bid.
PayPal only. After 4 days of non-payment, an automated unpaid item case will be opened by our eBay system. If you need extra time for payment, please contact us prior to bidding.
If you find yourself not wanting to risk losing this piece during an auction, we will entertain Buy It Now offers. However, we will not accept any offers in the 24 hours prior to an auction ending. Please message us with your best offer, and if accepted, we will add a Buy It Now option to this piece for you.