Most gems are formed in the dark underground places of the earth and emerge only as spectacular potential. They appear simply as rocks before they are cut, faceted, and polished and their beauty is fully revealed. Pearls were once the great exception, found hidden in oyster shells in the depths of the sea, fully formed in all their glory! 

Before we began to cultivate pearls at the turn of the 20th century, they were only found in nature and were difficult to acquire, making them a rarity reserved for the wealthiest noble classes. Modern abundance through cultivation has not quelled their allure and natural pearls like these remain rare. Adding to their inherent prestige, these natural pearls were fashioned by renowned London jewelers, Catchpole & Williams, who are best known for their iconic royal commissions.

Lovingly restrung with its gorgeous diamond clasp, this strand is complete with its original fitted and monogrammed antique box– a rarity unto itself! Old European cut diamonds encircle a single pearl on its gold clasp, adding a touch of romantic glitter to the exquisite necklace. The lustrous light cream pearls elegantly graduate in size, from the smallest at the clasp to the largest at its center, which balances the clasp's pearl with its comparable size. This classic single strand of natural pearls lays beautifully above the collar, gracing the neck with an incomparable delicate beauty that is certain to make the wearer look and feel like royalty!

• Made in the 1890s
• By Catchpole & Williams
• Natural saltwater pearls 
  • Ranging from 3.38 to 6.18 millimeters
  • GIA-Certified, Report # 5231813059
• 14k yellow gold clasp (tongue-in-groove secure click-in style)
• .50 carat in total weight of old European cut diamonds 
• Measures 14 & 3/4 inches long, clasp just under 1/2 inch wide
• Original box included, monogrammed 'E.C.R'

Inventory # P18687