Carved Bead Necklace Appraisal

Carved Brown Resin (possibly Bakelite or Amberoid) Bead Necklace with Central Carved Plaque

This item is a necklace composed of spherical beads and a central carved, oval-shaped plaque, presented in what appears to be its original fitted jewelry box. The beads are a warm, translucent reddish-brown color, consistent with materials such as carnelian, amber, bakelite, or other resinous plastics. While individual bead sizes vary slightly, they appear to range from approximately 8mm to 12mm in diameter, strung together with small, possibly silver-toned or white metal, spacers between each bead, adding a delicate contrast and spacing effect. The central plaque is significantly larger and more opaque, exhibiting a rich, dark brown hue. It features intricate, raised carving depicting floral or foliate motifs, possibly stylized roses or similar organic designs, with a notable 'swirl-like' pattern at its edges. The carving demonstrates a good level of detail and craftsmanship, with smooth, rounded edges to the carved elements, suggesting a hand-carved or meticulously molded piece. The overall condition of the beads appears good, with a visible patina or slight surface wear consistent with age and use. The stringing material is not visible but appears secure within the box. The presence of such a piece returning from Germany during WWII suggests a possible European origin and an age placing it in the Art Deco to mid-century period (1920s-1940s) for Bakelite or other early plastics, or potentially older if it is natural amber or carnelian, which were popular across many eras. The deep, rich color and translucent quality of the beads, combined with the detailed central carving, indicate a potentially valuable piece, depending on material identification. The presentation in a box suggests it was cherished.