Vintage Turquoise & Amber Necklace – Rajasthan Silver – Himalayan Jewelry
A remarkable statement necklace combining old turquoise beads, a large amber or pressed-amber focal bead, and traditional Rajasthan silverwork.
The necklace is constructed with four strands of turquoise beads on each side, displaying a particularly beautiful range of colors from vivid turquoise blue to deep green. The beads are irregular in shape and size and show clear evidence of long use. Some have multiple perforations, suggesting that they were reused from earlier jewelry, a common practice with valuable beads.
At the center is a large luminous orange-yellow amber or pressed-amber bead, framed and protected by finely worked silver caps.
The necklace terminates in substantial braided silver sections with a traditional hook closure. One of the silver terminals bears an “RA” mark. The present mounting is attributed to Rajasthan, India.
The combination of turquoise and amber strongly recalls the jewelry traditions of the Himalayan cultural sphere, particularly Tibet and Ladakh, where both materials have historically been highly valued and older beads were frequently preserved, inherited and reused.
With its intense contrast of turquoise green and warm amber-orange, this is an unusually powerful and sculptural necklace.
Materials & Construction
- Old turquoise beads
- Large central amber or pressed-amber bead
- Silver
- Four strands of turquoise beads on each side
- Braided silver terminal sections
- Decorated silver caps around the central bead
- Traditional hook closure
- “RA” mark on one silver terminal
- Rajasthan mounting
- Old knotted thread
The stones and central bead have not been laboratory tested; the material identifications are based on their traditional identification and appearance.
Dimensions
- Weight: 203 g
- Length: 50 cm / 19.7 in
- Construction: four strands of turquoise beads on each side
The necklace has a relatively short, substantial collar-like profile.
Origin & Cultural Context
Mounting: Rajasthan, India
Beads: older components, precise origin and date unknown
Cultural context: India / Himalayan jewelry traditions
Turquoise and amber have held an important place in Himalayan adornment, notably in Tibet and Ladakh, where they have been valued not only for their color but also as prestigious materials. Older beads were often preserved and incorporated into later jewelry.
The visibly worn turquoise beads in this necklace appear to have had a life before the present assembly, making the piece particularly interesting as an example of the reuse and transmission of valued jewelry materials.
Condition
Good vintage condition with considerable evidence of previous use.
The turquoise beads show natural irregularities, wear, surface alteration and old perforations. Some have several drilled holes. Their varied blue-green coloration and worn surfaces contribute considerably to the character of the necklace.
The threading is old and remains functional. The beads are individually secured with separation knots, reducing the risk of bead loss should the thread fail. Because of its age, however, the thread may eventually require replacement, particularly if the necklace is worn regularly.
The silver retains an attractive natural patina.
Wearing & Conservation
Despite its substantial 203 g weight, the multi-strand construction distributes the beads around the neckline and creates a striking collar effect.
For regular wear, the old threading should be periodically inspected. If it eventually requires replacement, restringing should preserve the existing arrangement and individual separation knots.
- Dimensions:
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- Country of origin: India
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Antique & Vintage Condition:
These pieces have been previously worn and may show patina, surface wear, small scratches or other traces of age. Any significant condition issue is described in the product text and shown in the photographs.
Shipping:
European Union: free tracked shipping.
Outside the European Union: flat-rate tracked shipping €30.
Orders of €400 or more: free tracked shipping worldwide.
Orders over €100 are insured. A phone number may be required by the carrier for delivery.
Customs & Import Duties:
European Union: no customs duties on deliveries within the EU.
United States: orders are shipped DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), with applicable import duties already included and no additional customs fees due on delivery.
Other countries: local import duties, VAT or customs charges may apply.
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