Preliminary identification

Mid-Century Double-Strand Faux Pearl Necklace with Butterfly Accents

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic mid-century costume jewelry piece featuring two strands of graduated faux pearls anchored by two textured butterfly motifs.

Story

Post-war fashion in the 1950s underwent a dramatic transformation, moving away from the austerity of the 1940s toward the 'New Look' which celebrated soft lines and decorative flair.

Maker / Origin

While this piece lacks a visible signature, it is consistent with the high-quality 'novelty' costume jewelry produced by firms like Coro, Trifari, or Sarah Coventry.

Condition & Value

The pearls appear to retain a good luster without significant 'peeling' of the nacre coating, which is the primary concern for faux pearls. The metal on the butterflies shows some light patina consistent with age; cleaning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the pearl finish.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD