Mid-Century Modern Silver-Tone Choker Necklace with Ruby Red Thermoplastic Cabochons

This is a vintage mid-century costume jewelry choker-style necklace, likely dating from the 1950s or 1960s. The necklace features a central decorative section composed of ten linked foliate-style panels. Each panel is constructed from a silver-toned base metal with a brushed or satin finish, sculpted into curved, vine-like branches that sprout delicate leaves. Nestled within these silver settings are pairs of marquise-shaped (navette) cabochons in a vibrant, opaque ruby red. These cabochons are likely made of Lucite or another early thermoplastic commonly used in mid-century costume jewelry production. The necklace transitions into a rectangular paperclip-style link chain, finished with a traditional J-hook clasp on one end and a singular round silver-tone metal bead on the extension end. The overall length appears adjustable due to the hook-and-chain mechanism. Condition-wise, the piece shows some signs of age-related patina on the metal, particularly on the link chain and the backs of the settings, which is typical for base metals of this era. The red cabochons appear well-seated without obvious chips or surface dulling. No visible maker’s marks are discernible from the front, though such pieces were frequently produced by notable costume jewelers like Coro, Trifari, or Lisner. The craftsmanship reflects the popular 'fruit salad' or botanical aesthetic of the post-war era, combining organic shapes with bold synthetic materials.

Based on my visual examination of this mid-century modern choker, I have assessed it as an unsigned piece of high-quality costume jewelry, likely dating to the late 1950s. The 'fruit salad' foliate design is iconic of the era's botanical trend. The silver-tone rhodium plating shows expected light patina, but the ruby red thermoplastic marquise cabochons retain their luster without visible crazing or 'sick' plastic degradation. The use of a J-hook and paperclip extender is consistent with mid-range manufacturers of the period, such as Coro or Lisner. While unsigned, the casting quality is crisp, suggesting a mass-market but reputable producer. The market for mid-century costume jewelry remains stable, though price points for unsigned pieces are lower than those for hallmarked Trifari or Boucher. Comparables for unsigned Lucite or thermoplastic leaf-motif necklaces typically sell within the $40 to $80 range at dedicated vintage boutiques or online marketplaces. The vibrant color and adjustable length make it a highly wearable piece, which sustains its demand among retro fashion collectors. Limitations: Authenticity as a period-correct piece is based on construction methods visible in the pixels (clasp style and metal texture). A physical inspection would be required to identify any obscured maker's marks on the reverse of the J-hook, test for lead or nickel content in the base metal, and verify the material via a 'hot needle' or chemical sniff test to distinguish between Lucite and earlier plastics like Bakelite, which could significantly increase the valuation if present.