Faux Fabulous - Vintage Gold Plated Simulated Pearl & Crystal Rhinestone Triple Strand Necklace (VN251)

Faux Fabulous - Vintage Gold Plated Simulated Pearl & Crystal Rhinestone Triple Strand Necklace. This wonderful pearl necklace is crafted from gold plate over metal.  Featuring  one simulated mabé pearl, numerous (simulated) round pearls, numerous round cut crystal rhinestones, and vintage styling. The pearls on this necklace are expertly hand-strung onto thread. The pearls have 3 strands of matched pearls, which display a beautiful lustre, and are white in colour. The pearls have some weight to them (a characteristic of vintage, and antique pearls). The clasp is decorative, showcasing a central large mabé pearl, and a sparkling crystal surround. The clasp is a slide and lock design, which is secure and in perfect working order. This vintage necklace would make a perfect bridal necklace or special occasion piece. 

History: In history two forms of faux pearls were manufactured in Italy, the earliest, produced from at least the 13th century, and hailing from the ingenious glass workshops of Venice, were imitation glass pearls. Some of these pearls were apparently made from an intriguing mixture of powdered glass, snail slime and egg white.

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."

The process was invented in 1805 by Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli who plated a very thin gold layer on top of silver. Since then, it has become commonplace in the jewelry world, with many base metals covered in gold, silver, or rhodium.

Measurements: Necklace 16 1/2"-17"-17 1/2"

Stone Size: Pearls (Simulated) 7.50 mm   Mabé Pearl (simulated) 12.00 mm   Crystal Rhinestone 2.00 mm 

Weight: 66.50 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Circa 1980