Mid Century Gold Necklace
A mid century gold necklace brings together structured period design and warm metal tones, most often found here set with pearls, diamonds, and coloured gemstones.
Mid Century Gold Necklace
A mid century gold necklace encompasses a variety of designs produced across the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, drawing on both traditional craftsmanship and mid-century modern aesthetics.
The most common versions encountered on this page are multi-strand cultured pearl necklaces secured with decorative gold clasps set with gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires, and garnets.
Other recurring forms include single pendants and suites featuring yellow or white gold paired with aquamarines, opals, rubies, and emeralds.
How they were made
Makers utilised 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, and 22ct yellow and white gold to construct links, chains, and detailed pendant mounts.
Gemstones including old cut diamonds, seed pearls, and cultured pearls were hand-set into clasps and focal drops, occasionally complemented by enamel, onyx, or coral elements.
Snakes, crosses, and bows all found their way onto mid-century clasps.
What varies in quality
The distinction between standard pieces and the top of the range rests on the scale and selection of the gemstones, such as larger certified emeralds, aquamarines, or high-carat opals.
Complexity of construction also plays a role, separating simple chain links from multi-strand pearl arrangements featuring intricately worked 18ct gold or platinum clasps.
Kria Gioielli
The Mid Century Gold Necklace Glossary
- Cultured pearl
- Pearls formed through the farmed introduction of an irritant into an oyster or mollusc. They form the primary strand material in many pieces from this era.
- Clasp
- A mechanical fastening device joining the ends of a necklace. In mid-century designs, these are frequently decorative centrepieces set with diamonds and coloured stones.
- Old cut
- A diamond cutting style prevalent in earlier periods that predates modern brilliant cuts. These stones appear in mid-century settings utilising reclaimed or traditional stones.
- Tubogas
- A flexible gold band technique inspired by industrial gas pipes. This Italian method creates a smooth, wrapping ribbon of gold.
Mid Century Gold Necklace: Frequently Asked Questions
What periods do these necklaces come from?
The pieces span the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, reflecting mid-century modern and retro design sensibilities.
Some examples also incorporate Victorian or nineteenth-century elements through older stones or traditional motifs.
How were pearl necklaces typically worn?
Double and triple strand pearls were designed to sit closely around the neck as chokers or short strands.
Longer graduated strands offered versatility for draping or doubling over during evening wear.
What metals are most common?
Yellow gold dominates the selection in various purities including 9ct, 14ct, 18ct, and 22ct.
White gold and platinum also appear frequently, particularly in pieces featuring diamonds and sapphires.
Are the clasps meant to be hidden?
Mid-century designs frequently featured decorative clasps set with pearls, garnets, amethysts, or diamonds intended to be worn at the front or side.
This allowed a functional element to double as the primary gemstone focal point of the jewellery.