Vintage necklaces are more than just accessories. They are treasures that carry history, craftsmanship, and timeless style. Vintage necklaces are unique, and each one has its own story to tell. Whether you want to wear an Art Deco-era necklace with Asscher cut diamonds or a Victorian-style pearl necklace, vintage jewelry is a great way to stand out from the crowd. Not only does it add a touch of glamour to your look, but you’ll also feel like you’re wearing classic art right on top of your skin.
Vintage beads are also a popular choice for jewelry. You can find beads made of glass in a rainbow of colors, wood and carved ivory, stone, mother-of-pearl, Bakelite, celluloid, and lucite. There are also beads that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From dainty little chokers to huge collars, there’s a beaded necklace for everyone. The most important thing is to care for your vintage beads by storing them in a cool place away from sunlight and moisture. You should also inspect them regularly for loose stones or clasps and clean them regularly as well.
Another popular style is the torsade. A torsade is a necklace that has multiple strings of beads or strands of metal that are braided together. It is a popular style that dates back to the 1800’s and was often given to bridesmaids as gifts. You can find torsades that have just one length of beads or they can be graduated. There are even some that have a fringe or cascading effect. These types of necklaces can be worn either with a simple dress or they can be paired with a gown.
You can find a wide range of vintage necklaces on Ruby Lane, the Etsy of exclusively vintage marketplaces. This site allows buyers and sellers to communicate with each other, share listings, and browse similar items. It’s a great resource for beginner collectors and is a good place to start your search.
Some of the best vintage necklaces are from the 1920’s era. This period is known for its use of geometric shapes and bold colors, and these necklaces are some of the most sought after in the market. These pieces are the perfect addition to a party outfit or can be worn to make a statement at work.
Lavalier necklaces are a great option for anyone who wants to show off their neckline. These necklaces have a chain that ends in a pendant that has a tassel or additional pendants hanging from it. This necklace is named after Louise de La Valliere, the mistress of Louis XIV of France and was popular in the late 1600s to the early 1900’s.
Another great thing about a lavalier is that it can be worn in the front or the back of your neck. You can also pair it with a bolo or a torsade. The torsade is the most common but you can also try it with a simple collar or bib necklace.
The Different Styles of Vintage Necklaces
Vintage necklaces are not just pieces of jewelry; they are treasures that carry with them the history and craftsmanship of a bygone age. The right vintage piece can elevate your look and add a touch of old world elegance to your wardrobe. With the proper care, vintage necklaces will continue to shine for generations to come.
If you’re considering adding a vintage necklace to your collection, it is important to understand the different styles of vintage necklaces and their defining characteristics. This is especially true for older styles, where the names may be less familiar than those used in newer jewelry. Understanding the terminology will help you better research and shop for your next vintage necklace.
Lavalier Necklace
A lavalier is a type of chain necklace that ends in one large size pendant or tassel. This style was popularized in the late 1600s when Louise de la Valliere, mistress of Louis XIV of France, often wore them. They also became a mainstay during the Jugendstil / Art Nouveau period in 1900 – 1930 as they were light and delicate and complemented the pastel color palette of the time.
Festoon Necklace
A festoon is a type of necklace that has swags or drapes of chains, beads, or metal parts making up the design. This necklace is known for being incredibly detailed, often with images of peacocks, viking ships, or wistful maidens. The festoon necklace also comes in a variety of lengths, from choker to bolo.
