18K Yellow Gold Tiffany & Co. City HardWear Graduated Link Necklace
Chain / Necklace (U-Link Gauge style) · Yellow Gold with a classic, rich saturation characteristic of high-karat luxury alloys.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness) consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Chain / Necklace (U-Link Gauge style)
Purity
18K (750 fineness) consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with a classic, rich saturation characteristic of high-karat luxury alloys.
Weight
Estimated between 40 to 60 grams depending on specific length (standard 18-inch model).
Description
An iconic piece of modern luxury, the HardWear necklace captures the spirit of New York City's industrial architecture. The bold U-links create a tension between elegance and grit, offering a substantial gold presence that transitions effortlessly from day to night. Its high-polish finish reflects light from every angle, making it a statement piece for collectors of modern designer gold.
Key Features
Distinctive gauge-link design with ball terminal accents; seamless invisible closure and heavy link construction.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish with a vibrant, warm buttery yellow hue; surface shows crisp reflections.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks include '© T & Co. AU 750' and 'ITALY' usually located on the link near the clasp or the clasp itself.
Dimensions Estimate
Standard lengths typically 18 inches; link width varies in graduated models from approx 8mm up to 15mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; this is a solid metal design focused on structural industrial aesthetics.
Clasp & Closure
Integrated hidden clasp system where one U-link opens as a hinged gate for a seamless appearance.
Chain & Links
Industrial-inspired U-shaped links joined by spherical ball connectors; smooth articulation and heavy drape.
Craftsmanship Details
Exceptional assembly with seamless soldering at the ball joints; high-precision casting ensures uniformity across graduated segments.
Authentication Indicators
Precise geometry of the U-links; specific weight-to-volume ratio; Tiffany-specific font in hallmarks; high-quality hidden hinge movement.
Origin & Maker
Tiffany & Co., manufactured in Italy, known for high-quality jewelry craftsmanship and luxury standards.
Era & Period
Contemporary (introduced in 2017); inspired by a 1971 unisex bracelet from the Tiffany archives.
Age Estimate
Likely produced between 2017 and the present; shows minimal signs of long-term vintage wear.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'HardWear' movement in high jewelry—mixing industrial motifs with precious materials to symbolize strength and rebellion.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent; light surface micro-scratches consistent with gentle wear; no distortions in the link shapes.
Value Estimate
Retail Approx. $15,000 - $18,000; Resale $8,500 - $11,000. Value is heavily driven by brand premium over the raw gold melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soapy water and a soft brush; professional buffing can restore mirror finish; store in a separate pouch to prevent scratching.
Similar Items
Louis Vuitton LV Volt necklace, Cartier Santos de Cartier chain, or generic 'Paperclip' style chains (which lack the ball terminal and U-shape).
Interesting Facts
The design is based on a ball-and-chain bracelet from the 1970s found in the Tiffany archives, re-imagined for a modern feminine audience.