Ab Grade Beads Appraisal

Vintage Aurora Borealis (AB) Grade Crystal Glass Bead Necklace

This is a single-strand vintage necklace featuring graduated faceted glass beads with an Aurora Borealis (AB) iridescent coating. The necklace is constructed with round beads of varying sizes, likely ranging from approximately 6mm to 12mm, providing a tapered aesthetic as it moves toward the clasp area. The beads are fashioned from clear glass with a precision-cut faceted surface designed to maximize light refraction, creating the characteristic rainbow-like shimmer associated with the AB finish, which was popularized by Swarovski in the mid-1950s. The beads are separated by small, clear glass spacer beads or possibly seed beads to provide flexibility and flow to the strand. The necklace appears to be strung on a tradition cord or wire with a metal decorative clasp, possibly a fish-hook or spring ring style, though the specific mechanism is partially obscured. There are no immediate signs of heavy chipping or 'flea bites' on the facets, though typical surface abrasions consistent with age and use may be present upon closer inspection. The color remains vibrant without the dulling often seen in lower-quality plastic imitations. Based on the style and bead type, this piece likely dates to the 1950s or 1960s, a period when iridescent crystal jewelry was highly fashionable. The craftsmanship indicates a mid-market costume jewelry piece, commonly produced by manufacturers in Austria or West Germany.