Coral & Pearl Necklace (14-16th Century)

Yes, I name the jewelry I make.

Necklace 1

This historically inspired piece is composed of coral beads and freshwater pearls. This style was a popular combination from the 14th to 16th century, but can be found before and after these time periods.

Many paintings of upperclass women show this combination, and even when not paired together they were often used singly or mixed with other components. 

The above piece was given to a friend. It’s sister piece (below) was donated to the Northshield Online Auction.

Complete set:

Probable examples given the evidence:

Sources:

  1. The Met

  2. Department of Medieval Studies at Central European University, Budapest

  3. Britannica

  4. Archaeobotanical evidences of food plants in Northern Italy during the Medieval and Renaissance Periods

  5. Golden Age Beads

  6. The Getty

  7. The role of coral in art and architecture: An overview

  8. Early Period Beaded Necklaces

  9. Medieval Anti-Poisons