π DESCRIPTION
Offered here is a magnificent graduated cultured Akoya pearl necklace of exceptional quality, featuring a hand knotted silk strand of genuine cultured pearls graduating from 3.6mm at the ends to a substantial 8mm at the center, secured by a beautifully ornate 14k gold filigree box clasp marked 14k. Measuring 20 inches in length β the classic Princess length that sits elegantly just below the collarbone β this is a complete fine jewelry pearl strand in every sense of the word.
The pearls themselves display the hallmark characteristics of quality Japanese Akoya cultured pearl production β the warm rosΓ© overtone that makes Akoya pearls the most sought after cultured pearl variety in the Western market, exceptional mirror-like luster with deep inner glow, clean surface with minimal blemishing, and perfectly round shape throughout the strand. The dramatic graduation from delicate small pearls at the ends to substantial center pearls creates a visually commanding necklace with excellent presence when worn.
Every pearl is individually hand knotted on silk β the definitive construction technique of fine pearl jewelry that protects each pearl from contact damage, prevents loss if the strand breaks, and confirms this piece was created to fine jewelry standards rather than mass market production. The silk knots remain intact and secure throughout the strand.
The 14k gold ornate filigree box clasp is a piece of jewelry in its own right β a beautifully detailed oval clasp with decorative filigree work that complements the elegance of the pearl strand perfectly. The 14k gold marking is clearly stamped on the clasp, confirming genuine gold content. This style of ornate box clasp was the preferred closure for quality pearl strands sold through fine jewelry retailers in the 1950s through 1970s β the golden era of American pearl jewelry when a quality Akoya strand was considered the essential fine jewelry wardrobe piece for every well-dressed woman.
β KEY FEATURES
β Genuine cultured Akoya pearls β Graduated strand 3.6mm to 8mm β Dramatic center graduation with substantial 8mm center pearls β Warm rosΓ© overtone most desirable Akoya color β Exceptional mirror-like luster throughout β Round shape highest value pearl form β Hand knotted silk throughout β fine jewelry construction β 14k gold ornate filigree box clasp β marked 14k β Princess length β 20 inches
π CONDITION REPORT
Pearls: Genuine cultured Akoya pearls with exceptional rosΓ© overtone and mirror-like luster. Round shape throughout. Strand: Hand knotted silk strand intact and secure throughout. All knots present between each pearl. Clasp: Ornate 14k gold filigree box clasp present and functional. 14k marking clearly stamped. Opens and closes securely. Overall: Estate fresh condition. Presents beautifully as shown.
π MAKER'S HERITAGE
The Japanese Akoya cultured pearl β developed through the pioneering work of Mikimoto KΕkichi in the early 20th century β revolutionized the pearl market and brought fine pearl jewelry within reach of a broader audience for the first time in history. Before cultured pearls, natural pearls were among the most expensive gems in the world β reserved exclusively for royalty and the ultra-wealthy. Mikimoto's cultured pearl technique, perfected in the warm waters of Ago Bay in Japan, produced pearls of exceptional quality characterized by the deep mirror-like luster, warm rosΓ© overtone, and perfect round form that define the finest Akoya production.
The 1950s through 1970s represented the golden age of American pearl jewelry β a period when a quality graduated Akoya strand with a gold clasp was considered the essential fine jewelry wardrobe piece, worn by women from the White House to Main Street as the definitive symbol of understated elegance. Jackie Kennedy's pearl strands β invariably graduated Akoya with gold clasps β defined the aesthetic of an era and cemented the graduated pearl necklace as a timeless fine jewelry classic.
A hand knotted graduated Akoya strand with a 14k gold ornate clasp from this era represents the finest expression of that tradition β a piece of jewelry that transcends fashion and remains as elegant and wearable today as the day it was created.
π΅οΈββοΈ PLEASE NOTE
π Please examine all photos carefully β item is sold as pictured. π¦ Item will be packed with exceptional care and shipped fully insured. π¬ Questions welcome before purchase. π¬ Combined shipping available β please request an invoice. π Check our other listings for Fine Jewelry, Estate Finds & Vintage Collectibles β always something new! π Thanks for your interest and support.