Vintage Mid-Century South Sea Pearl Necklace 18k

This Mid-Century South Sea pearl necklace features 29 graduated pearls ranging from 13.65mm at the ends to 16.70mm at the center, strung on 18 karat yellow gold with a diamond-set clasp.

South Sea pearls are known for their large size and satiny luster—these pearls have the soft, glowing surface quality rather than the high-shine finish of freshwater pearls. The graduated sizing creates a natural drape that sits heavier and more centered at your collarbone, with the largest pearls drawing the eye to the front.

The clasp contains 1.80 carats of diamonds in both round brilliant and square emerald cuts, with accent diamonds measuring 2.25mm adding sparkle when the clasp is worn to the side or front.

At 18 inches, this necklace sits at a traditional length that works well for most necklines. The pearl sizes here are substantial—13.65mm to 16.70mm is quite large even for South Sea pearls, which are already the biggest cultured pearls available, giving this piece real presence when worn.