Bluer Than Blue - Vintage Signed 'Sherman' Rhodium Plate Austrian Swarovski Crystal Rhinestone Necklace & Clip-On Earring Set (VN191)

Bluer Than Blue - Vintage Signed 'Sherman' Rhodium Plate Austrian Swarovski Crystal Rhinestone Necklace & Earring Set. This gorgeous set is crafted from Rhodium Plate, signed SHERMAN. Featuring round cut, emerald cut, and marquise cut Austrian Swarovski crystal gemstones, vintage styling, and high quality craftsmanship. This stunning Sherman set is made in the Edwardian style. The beautiful teal blue, and ice blue rhinestones sparkle like diamonds, because of the high quality Swarovski crystals. The necklace is adjustable so you can adjust it to your desired length. The earrings are for pierced and non pierced ears, and feature secure clip-on backings. This vintage set would make a perfect wedding heirloom or special occasion parure. These Sherman sets are becoming more rare, and are highly collectible. 

History: Centuries ago, quartz pebbles with a high lead content were found sparkling on the banks of Europe's Rhine River. These beautiful, natural stones were highly coveted and were eventually depleted, inspiring jewelers to create an imitation, aptly named the "rhinestone."

Swarovski crystals were first invented in 1895 by Austrian jeweler Daniel Swarovski. The crystals contain more than 30% lead, making for a harder, more reflective, higher quality stone. Swarovski crystals revolutionized the industry, using proprietary technology to cut faceted stones.

Gustave Sherman was one of Canada's finest costume jewellery designers. He began his company in Montreal, Canada, in 1941 - 1981, producing high end, quality costume jewellery. He used only the best Swarovski stones, crystal beads and findings. He favoured aurora borealis coatings and long marquise cut stones.

Regardless of the size or the design of any of the jewelry, each piece was made to a very high standard and was the most expensive costume jewelry of its style available. There was no such product as a low or economical line of Sherman jewelry.

These Pre-Columbian smiths used alloys of copper with gold and silver known as tumbaga. However, it wasn't until 1805 that Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli invented electroplating.

Measurements: Necklace 13 1/4" - 16 1/4"       Earrings 31.00 mm x 17.00 mm 

Stone Size: Swarovski Crystal Rhinestones 13.50 mm - 3.00 mm each 

Weight: Necklace 19.80 grams.    Earrings 7.60 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Canada, Montreal

Date: Circa 1950