This 1950s-early 1960s collar/bib necklace with a hooked clasp is made up of six graduating rows of citrine-colored crystals centering two rows of large rectangles separated by single and double rows of smaller round stones. The effect is clean-lined, luxurious, and dramatic, combining both the period desire for extravagantly feminine fashions and a Mid-Century modern architectural sensibility. Natural quartz pebbles with high lead content were discovered along Central Europe’s Rhine River centuries ago, and hence manufactured imitations developed starting in the late 18th century by such internationally recognized firms as Swarovski. These imitations were dubbed “rhinestones.” In today’s parlance “rhinestone” can refer to imitation gemstones of glass or even acrylic in addition to those made of high lead-content crystal such as our necklace. Ours are of such high quality and uniformity that they were undoubtedly produced in Austria or the Czech Republic. As another indication of its quality, the piece is rhodium plated. Condition: Excellent. Size: 12"