Identification
Photo reference
10 uploaded photos
Overview
The item is clearly marked with a '1928' tag on the extender chain, identifying it as a piece by the 1928 Jewelry Company. The materials (faux pearls, gold-tone metal, mother of pearl) and the Victorian revival style (painted roses, multi-strand seed pearls) are highly characteristic of this brand's output from the 1980s and 1990s. The set includes both the necklace and matching earrings, which is noted in the title.
Story
Founded in 1968 by Mel Bernie in Burbank, California, the 1928 Jewelry Company specialized in affordable, high-quality costume jewelry inspired by antique European designs. They frequently utilized the Vatican Library's archives for inspiration. This specific set, featuring their signature painted rose motif and faux seed pearls, is highly representative of their 1980s-1990s Victorian Revival output. The secondary market for vintage 1928 Jewelry Company pieces is active but highly saturated.
Maker / Origin
1928 Jewelry Company
Condition & Value
The set is in good overall vintage condition with no visible peeling on the faux pearls and minor metal wear. However, the value is heavily influenced by the peeling patch on the reverse of the central mother-of-pearl cabochon and two minor flaws on the front.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
The secondary market for vintage 1928 Jewelry Company pieces is active but highly saturated. Buyers are primarily nostalgic collectors and fans of Victorian Revival aesthetics, often shopping on platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Poshmark. Complete sets (demi-parures and parures) move significantly faster and command a noticeable premium over single necklaces, though condition remains the primary differentiator for top-tier pricing.
▲ Confirmation of matching earrings elevates the item to a demi-parure set, increasing baseline value.
▲ Confirmed 16. 5-inch wearable length (with extender) fits modern choker/princess preferences.
▲ Signature Victorian Revival rose and faux pearl motif is highly recognizable and sought after by brand collectors.
▲ Multiple sold comparables for similar 1928 sets validate the $25-$35 floor.
▼ Disclosed peeling on the reverse of the mother-of-pearl cabochon acts as a firm ceiling on collector value.
▼ High market saturation of 1928 jewelry means buyers have abundant alternatives, limiting pricing power.
Best Venue
List the complete set on Etsy or eBay, as these platforms have the strongest audience for vintage 1928 jewelry. A fast-sale price of $25 is recommended if quick liquidation is needed, while an optimistic list price of $45 leaves room for offers. Ensure the condition flaws on the cabochon are clearly photographed and described to prevent buyer returns.
Upside Potential
Due to the permanent peeling flaw on the mother-of-pearl cabochon, there is no realistic upside beyond the stated $45 high estimate, as pristine condition is required to breach the $50+ tier for this brand.