Necklaces

Vintage necklaces and pendants

Vintage necklaces and pendants are exquisite treasures that evoke a sense of timeless elegance and romance. From delicate chains adorned with intricate pendants to bold costume jewellery statement pieces featuring ornate designs, vintage necklaces offer a diverse array of styles, materials, and craftsmanship that reflect the aesthetics of bygone eras.

One of the most enchanting aspects of vintage necklaces and pendants is their ability to tell stories. Each piece carries with it a rich history, from the Art Deco glamour of the Roaring Twenties to the whimsical charm of the Victorian era. Whether passed down through generations as family heirlooms or discovered in antique shops and estate sales, vintage necklaces and pendants bear witness to the fashion trends, cultural influences, and personal stories of their time.

Victorian necklaces

Victorian-era necklaces often feature intricate designs inspired by nature, sentimental motifs such as hearts and flowers, and a penchant for symbolism. Lockets, in particular, were popular during this time, serving as vessels for cherished mementos and tokens of affection. These necklaces evoke the romanticism and sentimentality of the Victorian era, with their intricate filigree work and richly coloured gemstones.

Art Nouveau necklaces

The Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought a departure from the structured designs of the Victorian era, favoring flowing lines, organic forms, and motifs inspired by nature. Art Nouveau necklaces often feature sinuous curves, delicate enamel work, and motifs such as dragonflies, butterflies, and flowers. These pieces exude a sense of whimsy and femininity, capturing the essence of the Art Nouveau aesthetic.

Art Deco necklaces

In contrast, the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s introduced a bold, geometric style characterised by clean lines, bold colours, and a fascination with modernity. Art Deco necklaces and pendants often feature geometric shapes, symmetrical patterns, and a mix of materials such as platinum, diamonds, and colourful gemstones. These pieces reflect the opulence and glamour of the Jazz Age, with their sleek and sophisticated designs.

Mid century necklaces

Mid-century vintage necklaces and pendants from the 1940s and 1950s often showcase a mix of styles, drawing inspiration from both the past and the present. From elegant pearl strands reminiscent of Hollywood glamour to playful charm necklaces adorned with whimsical motifs, these pieces capture the eclectic spirit of mid-century fashion.

1960s necklaces

Vintage necklaces from the 1960s represent a fascinating intersection of shifting cultural norms, emerging artistic movements, and innovative design trends. This decade was characterized by a spirit of rebellion, experimentation, and social change, which is reflected in the diverse range of necklace styles from the era.

One prominent influence on 1960s necklace design was the rise of the mod and psychedelic movements. Mod fashion embraced bold, geometric shapes, bright colours, and graphic patterns, while psychedelic style embraced surreal imagery, intricate patterns, and vibrant hues. Necklaces from this era often featured statement-making designs, such as oversized pendants in abstract shapes, colourful beads arranged in bold patterns, and enamel accents in psychedelic colours like hot pink, lime green, and electric blue.

The 1960s also saw a resurgence of interest in ethnic and folk-inspired jewellery, spurred by a growing fascination with world cultures and the global exchange of ideas. Necklaces incorporating elements of tribal art, traditional craftsmanship, and natural materials became popular during this time. These pieces often featured intricate beadwork, carved wooden pendants, and motifs inspired by Native American, African, and Asian cultures.

Another notable trend in 1960s necklace design was the popularity of choker necklaces. Chokers, which sit snugly around the neck, became a symbol of rebellion and youthful defiance, worn by fashion icons and countercultural figures alike. These necklaces ranged from simple velvet bands adorned with a single pendant to elaborate beaded designs embellished with charms and talismans.

The influence of the Space Age and futuristic aesthetics also made its mark on 1960s necklace design. Necklaces featuring sleek, metallic finishes, geometric shapes, and innovative materials like Lucite and acrylic reflected the era's fascination with technology and progress. These futuristic necklaces often had a minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and abstract forms that echoed the sleek designs of the Space Age.

In addition to these overarching trends, vintage necklaces from the 1960s also encompass a wide range of styles influenced by popular culture, music, and art movements of the time. From the bohemian chic of hippie jewellery to the glamour of Swinging London, 1960s necklaces capture the spirit of a transformative decade marked by creativity, innovation, and cultural upheaval. Today, these vintage pieces continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts and collectors, offering a nostalgic glimpse into one of the most dynamic periods in modern history.

Vintage necklaces from the 1970s epitomize the eclectic and free-spirited vibe of the era, reflecting the cultural movements, fashion trends, and social shifts of the time. The 1970s saw a continuation of the countercultural movements that had emerged in the previous decade, as well as the rise of disco culture, bohemian fashion, and a newfound interest in global influences.

1970s necklaces

One of the most iconic necklace styles of the 1970s was the long pendant necklace. These necklaces featured large, eye-catching pendants suspended from long chains, often embellished with colorful gemstones, natural materials like wood and turquoise, or intricate metalwork. Long pendant necklaces were a staple accessory for bohemian-inspired looks, adding a touch of drama and whimsy to flowing maxi dresses and peasant blouses.

Another popular necklace style from the 1970s was the beaded necklace. Beaded necklaces came in a variety of styles, from simple strands of colourful beads to elaborate designs incorporating intricate patterns and textures. Beads made from natural materials like wood, bone, and shell were especially popular, reflecting the era's back-to-nature ethos and fascination with global cultures.

The 1970s also saw a resurgence of interest in ethnic and tribal-inspired jewellery, fueled by a growing awareness of world cultures and a desire for authenticity and self-expression. Necklaces featuring tribal motifs, traditional craftsmanship, and natural materials like feathers, leather, and beads became sought-after fashion accessories, worn as symbols of solidarity with indigenous peoples and expressions of cultural identity.

As disco culture took hold in the latter half of the decade, statement-making jewellery became increasingly popular. Chunky, oversized necklaces adorned with bold geometric shapes, sparkling crystals, and metallic finishes were favoured by disco divas and fashion-forward trendsetters alike. These bold necklaces added glamour and drama to disco-inspired ensembles, reflecting the era's love of excess and opulence.

In addition to these trends, vintage necklaces from the 1970s also encompass a wide range of styles influenced by popular culture, music, and art movements of the time. From the bohemian chic of hippie jewellery to the glitz and glam of disco-inspired designs, 1970s necklaces capture the spirit of a decade defined by experimentation, individuality, and self-expression. Today, these vintage pieces continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts and collectors, offering a nostalgic glimpse into one of the most dynamic periods in modern history.

1980's necklaces

Though not strictly yet classified as vintage, there is currently a lot of interest in jewellery from the 1980's. Necklaces from the 1980s are characterised by bold, statement-making designs that reflect the vibrant and exuberant spirit of the decade. The 1980s were a time of excess, glamour, and self-expression, and this was reflected in the fashion trends of the era, including jewellery styles.

One of the most iconic necklace styles of the 1980s was the chunky, oversized necklace. These necklaces were often made from large, brightly coloured beads, plastic or resin materials, and metallic accents. Chunky chains with large links were also popular, sometimes adorned with charms or pendants in bold shapes and sizes. These statement necklaces were often worn as focal points of an outfit, adding a touch of drama and personality to even the most basic ensembles.

Another trend that emerged in the 1980s was the popularity of neon and fluorescent colours. Neon-bright accessories, including necklaces, were a ubiquitous sight during this time, with fluorescent plastic beads and neon-coloured pendants being particularly fashionable. These bold and eye-catching necklaces were often worn as a way to make a bold fashion statement and to stand out in a crowd.

The 1980s also saw a resurgence of interest in costume jewellery, with designers experimenting with unconventional materials and innovative techniques. Necklaces made from lucite, acrylic, and other synthetic materials became popular, often featuring bold geometric shapes, abstract designs, and playful motifs. These avant-garde necklaces were favoured by fashion-forward trendsetters and became emblematic of the bold and eclectic style of the decade.

In addition to these trends, vintage necklaces from the 1980s also drew inspiration from popular culture and music. Madonna, with her iconic layered chains, pearls and crosses, influenced the fashion choices of millions of young women around the world, leading to a proliferation of crucifix necklaces, faux pearls and layered chain necklaces during the decade. Music genres like punk and new wave also had a significant impact on necklace styles, with studded leather chokers and spiked collar necklaces becoming popular among fans of these subcultures.

Overall, vintage necklaces from the 1980s are characterised by their boldness, creativity, and sense of fun. Whether adorned with oversized beads, neon colours, or avant-garde designs, these necklaces capture the spirit of a decade defined by its love of excess and self-expression. Today, these vintage pieces continue to be cherished by collectors and fashion enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic glimpse into one of the most dynamic periods in modern history.

1990s necklaces

Though not yet vintage necklaces from the 1990s reflect the eclectic and diverse fashion trends of the era, which were influenced by a mix of pop culture, music, and street style. The 1990s marked a departure from the excess and glamour of the preceding decade, with a return to more minimalist and grunge-inspired aesthetics.

One of the key necklace styles of the 1990s was the choker necklace. Popularised by celebrities like Winona Ryder and the cast of "Friends," chokers became a staple accessory for the fashion-conscious crowd. These necklaces were often made from velvet, leather, or plastic, and were worn snugly around the neck, adding a touch of edginess to grunge-inspired outfits. Chokers came in a variety of styles, from simple black bands to adorned with charms, pendants, or intricate beading.

Another trend that emerged in the 1990s was the popularity of pendant necklaces with symbolic or sentimental motifs. Necklaces featuring symbols like peace signs, yin-yang symbols, and celestial motifs were particularly fashionable, reflecting the era's interest in spirituality and self-expression. These pendant necklaces were often worn as personal talismans or expressions of individuality.

In addition to chokers and pendant necklaces, the 1990s also saw a resurgence of interest in vintage and retro-inspired jewellery. Vintage-inspired necklaces featuring Victorian-style cameos, Art Deco motifs, and antique finishes became popular among fashion-forward trendsetters looking to add a touch of nostalgia to their ensembles. Layered necklaces were also popular during this time, with fashionistas mixing and matching different lengths and styles to create unique and personalised looks.

As the decade progressed, hip-hop and streetwear culture had a significant influence on necklace styles. Chunky gold chains, oversized pendants, and nameplate necklaces became synonymous with hip-hop fashion, worn as symbols of status and wealth. These bold and flashy necklaces were often paired with oversized T-shirts, baggy jeans, and sneakers, creating a signature look that defined urban fashion in the 1990s.

Overall necklaces from the 1990s reflect the era's diverse range of influences, from grunge and alternative fashion to hip-hop and streetwear culture. Whether adorned with chokers, symbolic pendants, or vintage-inspired designs, these necklaces capture the spirit of a decade defined by its eclectic and ever-evolving sense of style. Today, these pieces continue to be cherished by collectors and fashion enthusiasts, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a dynamic period in modern history.

Whether adorned with sparkling gemstones, intricate enamel work, or lustrous pearls, vintage necklaces and pendants hold a special allure for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Each piece is a testament to the craftsmanship, creativity, and enduring beauty of vintage jewellery, offering a glimpse into the past while adding a touch of timeless elegance to the present.