Festoon Necklace Appraisal

Vintage Art Deco Style Rhinestone Festoon Necklace

This item is a vintage Art Deco style festoon necklace, likely crafted from a base metal with a silver-tone finish, possibly rhodium plated brass or pot metal, and adorned with clear paste rhinestones. The necklace features a delicate chain leading down to a central festoon-style drop. The main decorative element consists of a series of interconnected, curvilinear segments, each encrusted with small, circular clear rhinestones, creating an ornate, lacelike appearance. These segments are symmetrically arranged, with a slightly larger, more central bow-like or floral motif connecting to the main pendant drop. The central pendant is elongated and tear-drop shaped, also embellished with small clear rhinestones. A prominent feature of this central drop is a rectangular or baguette-cut clear rhinestone, set horizontally within a dark-colored (possibly black enamel or oxidized metal) border, creating a striking contrast and emphasizing the geometric aesthetic characteristic of the Art Deco period. The craftsmanship suggests a manufactured piece, with the rhinestones likely prong-set or paste-set. There appears to be some wear visible, including potential patina on the metalwork and a possible darkening of the metal surface in recessed areas, which is typical for vintage costume jewelry. The rhinestones appear largely intact, though their clarity and brilliance cannot be fully assessed without closer inspection. This style suggests an estimated age from the 1920s to 1940s, a period when such ornate and sparkling costume jewelry was highly fashionable. The overall condition appears to be good for its age, considering it is a wearable piece of jewelry.