Cognac Jewel - Vintage Gold Plated Austrian Crystal Rhinestone Necklace (VN274)

Cognac Jewel - Vintage Gold Plated Austrian Crystal Rhinestone Necklace. This vintage necklace is crafted from gold plate over base metal, hallmarked Austria. The necklace features numerous round cut and tear-drop shaped faceted crystal rhinestones, vintage era styling, and quality craftsmanship. This gorgeous necklace is composed of beautiful sparkling cognac coloured crystals. The gallery showcases one larger drop, which resembles a floral motif, and a graduated drop on each side. The necklace also has 3 smaller and shorter drops, and crystals all the way around the necklace. The clasp simply hooks onto the necklace, so it can be worn at your desired length. This vintage necklace sparkles beautifully, truly a perfect addition to any formal attire. 

History: Vintage costume rhinestone jewelry signed "Austria" or "Made in Austria" is generally considered high quality.  Dating mostly from the 1930s through the 1960s, Austrian pieces are heavily sought after by collectors for their superior materials, brilliant sparkle, and expert craftsmanship. 

Austria has a rich history of crystal cutting (anchored by innovators like Swarovski). The rhinestones used in these pieces are precision machine-cut rather than molded glass, giving them exceptional brilliance and light refraction. 

Many mid-century Austrian pieces feature stunning iridescent AB coatings (co-developed by Swarovski in the 1950s), which remain vibrant and resistant to flaking in well-kept pieces.

Unlike cheaper costume jewelry where stones are glued in, high-grade Austrian pieces usually feature individually prong-set stones housed in durable japanned, brass, or silver-plated metal backings. 

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."

What Is Gold-plated Jewelry? Gold-plated jewelry is a type of metal jewelry covered with a very thin layer of real gold. The process was invented in 1805 by Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli who plated a very thin gold layer on top of silver.

Measurements: Necklace (adjustable up to 17 3/4") 

Stone Size: Varies of shapes and sizes

Weight: 23.50 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Austria 

Date: Circa 1950