Late Victorian Hand Carved Bone Bead Necklace

Antique jewelry made from carved bone was very popular during the Victorian era. Bone is a hard material from the skeleton of most vertebrate species, but the variety mainly used in jewelry is from such animals as the wild boar or wild hog. It was used to imitate ivory, which was more expensive.

A spectacular hand carved bead necklace from the late Victorian (ca1900) era! The necklace is made of 35 intricately detailed, bone spheres which vary in size. There are 30 smaller spheres, while the 5 spheres at the center of the piece are much larger in size. Each bone bead is covered in a lovely carved design that includes cutouts. All the spheres are hollow and are strung on thick, white string. At the back of the necklace is a modern, gold-filled clasp, which is ornately decorated with a flower covered in milgrain details. This necklace is very unique and a true work of art!

Measurements: The strand measures approximately 24" long. The smaller spheres have a diameter of 1/2", while the larger spheres have a diameter of approximately 1”.

Condition: The overall condition of the necklace is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent chips to the bone beads. The color varies slightly due to age, which gives this piece its special appeal!