Droplet Necklace Appraisal

Artisan Enamel and Bead Droplet Necklace

This is an artisan-crafted necklace, approximately 18 inches in length as indicated. It features a silver-toned metal chain, possibly sterling silver or a silver-plated base metal, with a design that incorporates a series of bar-shaped links alternating with smaller circular links and attached decorative elements. The most prominent features are the numerous 'leaf' or 'petal' shaped drops, each roughly 1 to 1.5 inches long, which appear to be hand-painted or enameled. These drops display a vibrant palette of blues and greens, including shades of azure, teal, and a darker, almost indigo blue, with some showing a mottled or textured surface, suggesting a hand-applied technique like cloisonné, champlevé, or a simple painted finish over a metallic base. There are also smaller, circular, flat metallic discs interspersed with the drops, some of which exhibit faint tool marks or perhaps a textured finish. Additionally, small, rounded beads, primarily in a consistent blue hue, are incorporated into the design, appearing to be either natural stone beads (such as lapis lazuli or turquoise) or glass beads, positioned along the chain or at the attachment points of the larger drops. The overall construction suggests a contemporary or modern artisan piece, likely from the late 20th or early 21st century. The necklace weighs 15 grams, a detail provided by the scale it rests upon. There are no immediately visible major condition issues such as breaks or significant damage, though some light surface wear or minor scratching is possible given its presumed age and use, particularly on the metallic components and the flat enamel surfaces. The craftsmanship appears to be reasonably good, with attention paid to the colorful details and the arrangement of elements achieving a flowing, organic aesthetic.