1978 Chanel Haute Couture Documented Gold and Seed Pearl Necklace
This rare and documented Chanel seed pearl and gold chain link necklace was designed for the spring/summer 1978 haute couture collection by J. Cazaubon and Y. Dudel. Gabrielle Chanel had past away in 1971 and several of her assistants led the design teams until 1982 when Karl Lagerfeld was appointed creative director.
This single strand sautoir was likely crafted by Robert Goossens, a long time jewellery collaborator with Chanel after she returned to Paris in 1954; it simply slips on over the head. The necklace is made up of glistening white seed pearls, threaded in spirals around gold-plated bars. The chain is formed of gold-plated twisted pieces which look like 'barbed wire' and the final adornment is the spherical gold-toned beads which are engraved in vertical lines.
Identifying early Chanel haute couture jewellery is a time-consuming and painstaking process. Jewellery pieces were often handcrafted and one-of-one; they were selected to go with the presentation outfits of a collection and were rarely retailed. This necklace has rare provenance and I purchased it directly from the vendor who's father had been a senior member of Chanel's financial management team in the 1970s and 1980s. It has been in Circa's collection for over 15 years.
Made in France, this necklace is in good archival vintage condition. Clearly an assembly of components, each have aged separately and the gold elements are slightly different tonally. This is more noticeable with the necklace in-hand than when worn. One of the wires linking a chain element may also be a discreet repair but this is tiny and very minor. The seed pearls are holding up well with minimal nacre loss. None of these issues detract when the item is being worn and this necklace can be both enjoyed by avid Chanel collectors and wearers of fine costume jewellery or couture.
MEASUREMENTS
LENGTH - 43 in. (109 cm)
Pickup available at CIRCA VINTAGE
Usually ready in 24 hours
F.A.Q.
Will you set anything aside for me before I come?
We are happy to find anything you may be interested in from our website - please let us know a week in advance.
We also have an extensive offline collection. If you let us know your size, style, favourite colour to wear and perhaps your budget, we can browse through our archive in advance of your appointment.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Clients may wish to bring modern shapewear when trying on garments from certain eras, especially the 1950s. Vintage clothing was often worn with undergarments that shaped the waist and as such is tailored for them.
We have a huge variety of slip dresses and petticoats to complete your look; many of which are also for sale.
You may also wish to bring your favourite footwear. We often find a classic pair of nude shoes work well when trying on, or a pair in gold or silver.
Do you have a price range?
Many of our lower-priced pieces (under £150) are not available to buy online. Our prices range from £80 - £600 for separates. Dresses start at around £150 and go up to £2,500 for the very best antique pieces and designer vintage. Our bridalwear ranges from £300 - £3,000.
Can I bring anyone with me?
Yes but please do let us know the size of your party in advance.
Where can I get alterations?
We offer some alterations in house. Should you need alterations we cannot provide, we can refer you to one of our tried and trusted tailors.
Do you have an after-care service?
We will advise you on the best way to clean and preserve your vintage pieces and can also recommend trusted local dry cleaners.
Can I cancel my appointment?
You are free to cancel but please do give us as much notice as possible. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment, you will be invoiced a late cancellation fee of £25.
Where's the showroom?
Our address is Circa Vintage, 87A Lansdowne Way London SW8 2PB
Upon arrival, buzz the 87A button on the gate or call us 020 7736 5038 to let you in.
Do you have parking?
We offer free, secure, off-street parking but it is a tight squeeze – so do let us know in advance if you will be needing this and we can make sure that there is space available.
How do I get there by public transport?
Underground:
Stockwell (7 min walk) - Northern and Victoria Lines
Nine Elms (9 min walk) – Northern Line
Overground:
Wandsworth Road (13 min walk) – Westbound to Clapham Junction / Eastbound to Dalston Junction
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit/debit card, bank transfer, contactless, Paypal