Pearls were once the epitome of luxury, signifying wealth and taste during a time when pearls were exceedingly rare and incredibly expensive. While larger pearls were the domain of only the very rich, seed pearls were a bit easier to acquire, and were very popular strung as simple strands during the 18th and 19th centuries. A symbol of purity, virtue, femininity, and youth, they were considered the ideal gem. These two beautiful, elegant strands are composed of well-matched seed pearls in warm, iridescent ivory tones. The 9k gold clasps, while themselves antique, are not original to the necklaces- they are stamped "Ciro," a prominent maker of faux pearls that was very popular during the 1920s, and would have been added to these strands sometime during the 20th century. The pearls, however, are likely 19th century, if not older. One strand (strand A in the second photo) features slightly smaller, irregular pearls, while the other (strand B in the second photo) has slightly larger pearls, with a warmer ivory color, that are a bit more uniform in shape and size.
Both strands are in excellent condition, and have been restrung on silk fairly recently. Both measure 18" long. Clasps are stamped 9CT (9k), and close securely.
