This spectacular 1940s necklace is a wonderfully dimensional example of fruit-themed costume jewelry, featuring five elaborate grape stations arranged across the neckline. Each station is decorated with a sculptural cluster of creamy blush-pink grapes surrounded by molded green leaves and peach-pink vine details. Small deep berry-colored rhinestones add touches of sparkle among the fruit and foliage.

The molded fruit elements appear to be celluloid and are individually mounted over ornate openwork silver-tone metal stations. The dimensional construction gives the grapes remarkable depth, while the open metalwork keeps the necklace visually airy despite its substantial statement design. A double-link chain, hook closure, extension chain and ball-shaped end drop complete the piece.

Fruit motifs were particularly fashionable in costume jewelry during the 1930s and 1940s, with colorful dimensional designs often described today as fruit salad jewelry. The molded celluloid components, applied dimensional decoration, rhinestone accents, openwork metal construction and hook-and-chain closure are all consistent with a circa 1940s date. This is an especially elaborate interpretation of the period’s whimsical fruit jewelry, with five coordinated grape clusters rather than a simple strand of molded beads or charms.

Why You Will Be Obsessed With It

• Five dimensional grape clusters make an incredible statement across the neckline.
• Celluloid grapes and leaves have wonderful sculptural detail.
• The blush pink and green color combination is beautifully unusual.
• Tiny berry-colored rhinestones add unexpected touches of sparkle.
• Ornate openwork metal settings make the necklace beautiful from every angle.
• A fabulous example of whimsical 1940s fruit salad jewelry.

Far more elaborate than the typical molded fruit bead necklace.

Condition

Good vintage condition with visible age-related wear consistent with a necklace dating to approximately the 1940s. The silver-tone metal shows surface wear, oxidation, darkening and areas of finish loss, particularly visible on the reverse and chain. The dimensional molded fruit and foliage retain wonderful detail and color. Please review all photographs carefully for the exact condition of the molded components, rhinestones, settings, chain and closure.

Measurements

Please refer to the photographs for scale, including the U.S. quarter shown beside the individual grape stations. Full wearable necklace length should be added once measured.

Most items are shipped in a cotton filled jewelry presentation box. Buyers can reach out if they are purchasing as a gift to ensure it is sent in a gift box.

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