A graceful vintage négligée necklace in 18ct white gold, dating to circa 1960. The delicate chain is set with eight rubover-set diamonds and gathered at the centre around a principal diamond, creating a softly asymmetric drop. Two tassels, one slightly longer than the other, fall from the central setting and are each finished with a grey South Sea pearl of remarkable lustre.

The combination of high-lustre pearls, lively diamonds and subtle movement gives this necklace an elegant, distinctly 1960s character. Finished with a lobster clasp bearing a French eagle's head assay mark for 18ct gold, alongside an unidentified maker's mark.

The Details

• Period: Circa 1960
• Metal: 18ct white gold
• Gemstones: Two grey South Sea pearls; diamonds
• Pearl dimensions: Approx. 11.5 × 12.5mm and 10.5 × 10.5mm
• Estimated central diamond weight: Approx. 0.73 carats
• Total remaining diamond weight: Approx. 1.2 carats
• Estimated diamond colour and clarity: F/G and VS1/VS2
• Length: 16 inches off the neck
• Drop lengths: 6cm and 7cm
• Weight: 11.7g
• Fastening: Lobster clasp
• Hallmarks: French eagle's head assay mark for 18ct gold; unidentified maker's mark