Vintage red beaded and retro shell necklace, unique fancy

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This costume necklace features an original composition of regular cylindrical red beads, strung along the entire visible length. The design is punctuated by three natural cowrie shells, arranged asymmetrically, adding a retro and summery touch to the ensemble. Small black and white beads are also inserted near one of the shells, creating a slight graphic contrast. The overall necklace evokes a vintage style inspired by bohemian and ethnic accessories from the 70s-80s, although the exact era cannot be confirmed without further clues.

The surface of the red beads has a brilliant and smooth finish, while the shells retain their natural appearance, with a white color and a characteristic central opening. The stringing thread is not apparent, which gives the jewelry a neat and continuous look. No clasp is visible in the photo, suggesting a design without a visible attachment on the exposed side.

The general silhouette of the necklace is elongated, suitable for wearing around the neck as a sautoir or long necklace. The combination of colorful beads and natural shells recalls artisanal creations and retro trends, while remaining in a sober and easy-to-wear everyday aesthetic.

This piece of jewelry is presented on a bright yellow textile background, which highlights the rich color of the beads and the whiteness of the shells. No markings, signatures, or logos are visible on the exposed side. The item is in perfect apparent condition; no wear, scratches, or defects are observable in the provided photo.

Condition

Used item in perfect apparent condition, sold as is.

Did you know? Cowrie shells, used here as ornamentation, long served as currency in many African, Asian, and Pacific cultures. Their use in costume jewelry dates back to the hippie and bohemian period of the 1970s, where they symbolized exoticism and freedom.

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Keywords: red bead necklace, retro costume jewelry, cowrie shell necklace, vintage sautoir, boho necklace, 70s accessory, beaded jewelry, ethnic necklace, long necklace, red bead necklace, retro women's necklace, shell bead costume jewelry