14K Yellow Gold Spacers in Natural Red Mediterranean Coral Necklace
Necklace (Beaded with Gold Accents) · Yellow Gold; likely an alloy with copper and silver to provide the classic warm tone that complements red coral.
Purity: Likely 14K (58.5% gold content), standard for high-quality vintage coral jewelry; could also be 18K in European boutique pieces.
Type
Necklace (Beaded with Gold Accents)
Purity
Likely 14K (58.5% gold content), standard for high-quality vintage coral jewelry; could also be 18K in European boutique pieces.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold; likely an alloy with copper and silver to provide the classic warm tone that complements red coral.
Weight
0.1 to 0.5 grams per gold bead; the gold is a minor component compared to the bulk weight of the coral beads.
Description
An elegant strand featuring barrel-shaped natural red coral beads interspersed with polished yellow gold spacer beads. This combination balances the organic, earthy texture of precious coral with the refined brilliance of high-karat gold.
Key Features
Natural Mediterranean coral growth patterns (visible white spots), seamless polished gold spherical spacers, and hand-strung assembly.
Color & Finish
High-polish rich yellow gold; the gold surfaces show a smooth, mirror-like finish meant to provide a sparkling contrast to the matte or semi-gloss organic coral.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not visible on individual spacer beads; hallmarks would typically be found on the necklace's clasp (e.g., '14K', '585', or Italian '750').
Dimensions Estimate
Gold spacers approx. 2-3mm in diameter; Coral beads approx. 8-10mm in thickness/width.
Gemstones & Inlays
Natural Mediterranean Red Coral (Corallium rubrum); features characteristic white 'pith' or growth centers and natural surface indentations.
Clasp & Closure
Not pictured; standard for this style would be a gold 'fishhook' box clasp or a lobster claw, often with a safety chain.
Chain & Links
Strung on silk or nylon thread; the gold beads serve as structural spacers to prevent the coral beads from rubbing against each other.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-strung with precision; the gold beads are likely machine-drawn seamless spheres. The coral beads are hand-cut and polished to a barrel or cylindrical shape.
Authentication Indicators
The gold spacers exhibit color consistency and lack of brassing/flaking, suggesting solid gold rather than gold-fill. The coral shows organic internal structures, authenticating it as natural rather than plastic or dyed bamboo.
Origin & Maker
Likely Italian origin (Torre del Greco), the historical center for red coral carving and jewelry manufacturing.
Era & Period
Mid-Century to Late 20th Century (1950s-1980s); Italian-inspired Mediterranean jewelry style.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980; based on the bead shape, the use of small gold spacers, and the visible wear on the stringing material.
Cultural Significance
In many cultures, red coral paired with gold is believed to protect the wearer from the 'Evil Eye' and is a traditional gift for children and brides in the Mediterranean and Asia.
Condition Notes
Very Good; coral shows natural pits and some surface dulling consistent with age. Gold beads appear intact but may require minor polishing. Stringing thread shows signs of wear and may require restringing for security.
Value Estimate
The value lies primarily in the coral and craftsmanship rather than the gold weight. Estimated retail: $400 - $1,200 depending on total necklace length and coral quality.
Care & Maintenance
Extremely fragile. Avoid chemicals, perfumes, and hairspray. Clean only with a damp, soft cloth. Store in a separate soft pouch; coral is much softer than gold and easily scratched.
Similar Items
Dyed bamboo coral necklaces (cheaper, visible grain) or sponge coral with resin filling. Alternative high-end versions use diamonds between the coral and gold.
Interesting Facts
Mediterranean red coral is considered 'Precious Coral' and is strictly regulated; it has been used in jewelry for over 5,000 years and was once traded as a form of currency.