Details

Description

antique / vintage 
 
 exceptional quality cultured pearl necklace 
 [
 these pearls are of Japanese origin, from the famous pearl fields of Lake Biwa. Due to pollution and low water levels, Lake Biwa ceased pearl production in 1980. 
 
 necklace dates between 1920 and 1925, owned by a Japanese jeweler , related to the Mikimoto Pearl Field family, but I don't know if the Mikimoto and Lake Biwa fields were related in any way. This necklace was part of his unfinished / unsold inventory, tucked away to have a clasp added and to be sold later if and when the family needed cash. 
 
 this exceptional quality necklace is made from 6 strands of naturally cultivated 3.76mm pearls (approximately based on perfectly matched pearls) in a pale creamy white tone, interspersed with an accent 14k yellow gold round spacing pearls at regular intervals. 
 
 EXCEPTIONAL MOTHER-OF-PEARL ON ALL BEADS 
 the necklace measures 29 inches in total length and features an impressive and modern "statement" safety clasp in 14k yellow gold, enhanced approximately 3-4 carats total weight of natural navrette cut garnets that resemble a large exotic floral flower. 
 
 These pearls were closed, on silk, and tied between the pearls. The necklace has been finished with a newer 14k yellow gold safety clasp, worthy of the quality and stature of the magnificent Lake Biwa pearls. The clasp features 3 large hand-cut polished garnets. 
 
 PLEASE NOTE: in the United States, it is illegal to sell pearls as Lake Biwa pearls UNLESS the pearls are originally from Lake Biwa, Japan originally!