Iridescent Shell Necklace Appraisal

Mother-of-Pearl/Shell Chip Necklace

This appears to be a necklace constructed from numerous small, irregular pieces of what resembles mother-of-pearl or shell fragments. The individual pieces are organic in shape, ranging from flat to slightly curved, resembling chips or shards. They exhibit a distinct iridescent luster, with colors shifting from creamy white and beige to light brown and subtle pinks, showing the characteristic nacreous sheen of shell material. Each piece is drilled and strung together, likely with a hidden string or wire, to form a continuous strand. The construction suggests a natural, handcrafted aesthetic. Near one end, a small length of metal chain, possibly brass or a gold-tone alloy, is visible, indicating the presence of a clasp mechanism, though the full clasp is not clearly discernible. The overall condition appears good, with no obvious signs of significant damage like chips or cracks on the shell pieces. Some light wear or minor discoloration might be present on the metal components due to age. The style suggests a bohemian, coastal, or possibly retro-contemporary aesthetic, likely dating from the mid-to-late 20th century or more recent. The quality of craftsmanship appears to be decent for a natural material necklace, prioritizing the natural beauty of the shell over precise uniformity. The irregular shapes and natural iridescence are its primary distinguishing features.