Recently Sold (VN220)

Delight In Black & White - Vintage Silver Tone Black Onyx (Simulated) & Crystal Rhinestone Necklace. This lovely necklace is crafted from a silver toned metal. The necklace features rectangular shaped onyx (simulated), round cut onyx (simulated), round cut faceted crystal rhinestones, vintage styling and quality craftsmanship. The galleries on this necklace are expertly claw-set with beautiful black onyx glass gems, which are enhanced by sparkling clear crystals. The rhinestones are hand-set like diamonds, which makes this necklace a quality piece. There are black cabochon glass onyx gems, which make up the rest of the necklace, which adds a nice contrast to the piece. The clasp is a fold-over type,  which is in perfect working order.  This vintage necklace would make a perfect special occasion necklace, truly a perfect addition to any vintage jewelry collection.  

History: People have been imitating real black onyx since ancient Roman times, when craftsmen made fake sardonyx by layering thin slabs of black, white, and red stones carefully together. Today, there are many onyx simulants around, as well as lab-created imitation onyx.

The term Rhinestone was given to the little sparkles after the river Rhine, where quartz pebbles, rock crystals with a high lead content were originally found. Folk would collect them from the shores, jewellers cutting and moulding them into little imitation diamonds.

In 1883, Daniel formed a jewelry company and by 1886, they had over 70 employees, and supplied jewelry for Queen Victoria. In 1891, Daniel registered a patent for the crystal cutting machine that he created and in 1895, moved from Bohemia to Wattens, Austria to begin crystal production.

Measurements: Necklace 14 1/2" 

Stone Size: Black Onyx (Simulated) 9.50 mm x 8.00 mm    (round) 3.00 mm    Crystal Rhinestones 3.00 mm 

Weight: 21.70 grams 

Condition: Good     Note: Age related Wear to finish on metal, which does not take away from the beauty of the piece. 

Origin: Europe 

Date: Circa 1960