This is a stunning 16.5" strand of rarely found 14mm Majorica Pearls, in original box with papers.
The necklace findings are vermeil - a lovely gold over sterling silver; the iconic clasp is all original and in perfect working order.
All 26 pearls are 14mm each, and in immaculate condition. Majorica has not made pearls of this size for some time, and it is difficult to find a 14mm strand. The box still had the original price of $355 affixed to it - and to put this into perspective, in 1960 the yearly average salary in the USA was $5600. This was someone's prized possession and was well cared for!
Producers of "World's Finest Simulant Pearls" the Majorica company was founded in Spain, in 1890 by Eduardo Hugo Heusch, and their pearls have become synonymous with quality. Many companies have tried to duplicate their processes, but none have come close.
To produce their pearls, each begins as a hand blown glass ball. They must be perfectly spherical, or they are rejected. These glass balls are then dipped in 30 layers of a secret formula knowns as "Essence of the Orient", with polishing and ultraviolet light treatments for durability.
Era: Vintage
Size: 16.5 inches
Materials: Majorica Pearls. Vermeil over Sterling Silver.
Marks: Majorica. 925.
Condition Notes: In excellent antique condition. Antique and Vintage treasures often show signs of love, including patina, scuffs to gold and stones, old sizing or repair marks. I am committed to providing accurate listings and will disclose any defects - but please don't hesitate to contact me before purchasing, I am happy to answer your questions and provide more photos.