Vintage Gold-Tone Costume Rhinestone and Faux Pearl Choker
Necklace (Tennis Style Choker) · Yellow Gold plating; likely an alloy of gold, copper, and zinc applied through electroplating to achieve a warm yellow tone.
Purity: Gold-Plated or Gold-Wash (Non-solid gold). Likely a thin layer of gold over an alloy such as brass or pewter.
Type
Necklace (Tennis Style Choker)
Purity
Gold-Plated or Gold-Wash (Non-solid gold). Likely a thin layer of gold over an alloy such as brass or pewter.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold plating; likely an alloy of gold, copper, and zinc applied through electroplating to achieve a warm yellow tone.
Weight
15 to 25 grams; lightweight construction typical of mid-century costume jewelry where heavy metals were avoided for comfort.
Description
A classic mid-century costume choker featuring an alternating pattern of sparkling rhinestones and lustrous faux pearls. The yellow gold-tone setting provides a warm frame for the stones, ending in a period-correct J-hook clasp. This piece captures the post-war glamour of affordable luxury for daily wear.
Key Features
Alternating stone/pearl pattern, J-hook adjustable clasp, four-prong cup settings, and lightweight non-precious metal construction.
Color & Finish
Yellow gold finish with noticeable surface wear and oxidation; the metal shows a muted patina and some areas of finish loss (brassing).
Hallmarks & Stamps
No visible stamps in the image; typical of mass-produced mid-century costume pieces. If present, they would likely be on the hook or the end ball bead.
Dimensions Estimate
Length: Approximately 14 to 15 inches (Choker length); Width: Approximately 3mm to 4mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
Alternating clear chaton-cut rhinestones (glass crystals) and simulated (faux) cream-colored pearls set in individual four-prong cups.
Clasp & Closure
Simple J-hook clasp with a round bead 'extender' termination; a standard closure for necklaces from the 1940s-1960s to allow for adjustable sizing.
Chain & Links
Cup-link (box-style) construction; individual metal cups connected by thin metal wire or fold-over tabs, providing moderate flexibility.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-stamped components with hand-set stones; the prongs are folded over the stones via a press. Soldering is minimal or absent in this style of link.
Authentication Indicators
Red flags for solid gold include the base metal showing through on the hook and the 'pitted' look of the metal edges; J-hook clasps are almost never used on solid gold jewelry.
Origin & Maker
Likely USA or Central Europe (West Germany/Austria); unsigned, characteristic of department store brands like Coro or Trifari (lower tier).
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Retro (c. 1950s - 1960s); defined by the use of classic tennis-style settings and the popular J-hook closure of the era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the prong settings, faux pearl coating style, and the mechanical assembly of the links.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of fashion in the mid-20th century, where 'junk jewelry' became acceptable for social events following the lead of designers like Coco Chanel.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible darkening of the faux pearl nacre (peeling or yellowing), metal finish is worn (brassing), and several rhinestones appear dull due to foil-back degradation.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25. Value is purely as a vintage fashion accessory with no intrinsic precious metal (melt) value.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid all water and chemicals; cleaning should only be done with a soft, dry cloth to prevent further loss of the gold plating or pearl coating.
Similar Items
Compared to a genuine 14K gold diamond tennis necklace, which would feature heavy soldered settings, a box or lobster clasp, and natural gemstone fire.
Interesting Facts
J-hook necklaces were designed to be 'one size fits all' for the 1950s woman, allowing the necklace to sit high on the neckline regardless of neck circumference.