Double Row Pearls
Double row pearls bring together two strands of lustrous beads fastened with gemstone clasps from the Victorian, Edwardian, and mid-century eras.
Double Row Pearls
When you search for double row pearls, you look at two-strand necklaces, chokers, bracelets, and rings featuring pearls alongside precious gemstones. The most common forms on this page are double strand pearl necklaces fitted with gold or white gold clasps.
The periods represented span from the 19th century and Victorian era through the 1920s Art Deco period, up to the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s. These pieces often feature clasps set with diamonds, garnets, sapphires, turquoise, tourmaline, or rubies.
Beyond necklaces, the selection includes multi-strand rings and bracelets that use cultured pearls paired with 9ct gold or higher gold standards. Each item demonstrates how jewellers arranged dual strands of pearls with decorative gemstone fasteners.
Quality and Craftsmanship
Quality rests in the matching and lustre of the pearls, alongside the complexity of the gold and gemstone clasp work. Pieces featuring certified pearls or higher carat gold clasps set with diamonds and sapphires sit at the upper end of the range.
The refinement of the clasp design, whether a foliate motif, a floral garnet cluster, or an abstract mid-century shape, distinguishes standard production from finer examples.
Listings feature items from the Victorian era, 1920s, 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, utilising pearl, 9ct gold, diamond, garnet, sapphire, and turquoise.
The Double Row Pearls Glossary
- Cultured pearls
- Pearls created by the introduction of an irritant into an oyster or mollusc to stimulate pearl formation. They appear frequently in mid-century and vintage pieces.
- Clasp
- The mechanical fastener designed to join the ends of a necklace or bracelet. In double row pieces, these are often decorative and set with gemstones.
- Restrung
- The maintenance process of replacing the thread holding the pearls together. This ensures the piece remains secure during wear.
- Hallmarked
- An official stamp indicating the metal purity and assay office of the gold component. It provides verifiable data on the date and origin of the gold.
Double Row Pearls: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I wear a double row pearl necklace?
These necklaces sit close to the collarbone or hang lower depending on the length of the strands. They suit formal attire or elevate everyday wear.
Position the decorative clasp at the back or rotate it to the side if the gemstone setting is designed to be visible.
Are these pearls natural or cultured?
The listings include both cultured pearls from the mid-century decades and certified pearls from earlier periods. Gem lab certificates often accompany the pieces to confirm their origin.
Examining the surface lustre and uniformity helps identify the type of pearl used in each strand.
How do I care for vintage pearl necklaces?
Wipe pearls gently with a soft cloth after wearing to remove oils and cosmetics. Store them flat to prevent stretching the stringing material.
Check the silk or cord periodically, especially if the piece sees regular use, and have it restrung when the thread weakens.