Polished Black Onyx or Glass Bead Necklace with Gold-Tone Clasp

Story

Black jewelry surged in popularity during the 19th century as 'mourning jewelry' under Queen Victoria. By the late 20th century, these dark stones transitioned from symbols of grief to icons of 'Power Dressing' and timeless chic. This strand captures that bold, sophisticated aesthetic.

Maker / Origin

While no visible hallmark identifies a specific designer, this style was popularized by houses like Kenneth Jay Lane and Trifari, who specialized in making 'costume' pieces look like high-end fine jewelry. It represents the democratization of luxury in the post-war era.

Condition & Value

The beads appear to be in excellent condition with no visible chips or dulling of the luster. The gold-tone clasp shows minimal wear, suggesting it was well-cared for. Excellent condition helps maintain the higher end of the value range. Value depends heavily on material; if the beads are natural onyx, it sits at the higher end.