Triple Strand Graduated Aurora Borealis (AB) Crystal Necklace
Unbranded (Likely Coro, Trifari, or Lisner) · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
Mid-1950s to Early 1960s (indicated by the Aurora Borealis finish introduced by Swarovski in 1955 and the box/slide clasp style)
Material
Facetted lead glass crystal beads with Aurora Borealis (AB) iridescent coating, silk or nylon thread, and silver-tone base metal hardware.
Condition
Very Good - The crystals appear clear and vibrant with the AB coating intact; however, there is visible string slack and some yellowing of the thread consistent with age.
Demand Level
Moderate - Steady demand for bridal jewelry and vintage enthusiasts, though the market is saturated with similar pieces.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$25.00 - $45.00
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (Estimated original inflation-adjusted value or comparable modern boutique vintage-style piece)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded triple-strand AB crystal necklaces typically sell for $28-$38 on Etsy. Signed pieces by designers like Coro or Weiss can reach $60-$85.
Description
Lovely mid-century vintage triple strand necklace featuring graduated faceted crystal beads. The beads are treated with a classic Aurora Borealis (AB) finish, giving them a rainbows-and-light effect. The strands are tiered for a elegant drape and finished with a decorative silver-tone slide clasp. Perfect for bridal wear, formal events, or collectors of MCM costume jewelry.
Key Features
High-quality faceted glass (not plastic), popular triple-strand 'waterfall' design, sought-after iridescent AB finish, and authentic vintage mid-century aesthetic.
Authenticity Indicators
Weight of the glass beads (heavier than plastic), specific refraction of AB coating, and the construction of the fish-hook or slide box clasp common in 1950s production. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
String stretching (gaps visible near the clasp), slight oxidation on the metal clasp, and potential 'flea bites' (tiny chips) on crystal edges typical of glass jewelry of this age.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage), eBay (good for auctioning to collectors), or Poshmark/Mercari (better for 'special occasion' buyers).
Selling Tips
Photograph against a dark background to make the iridescent 'rainbow' effect pop. Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Mid Century', 'Aurora Borealis', 'Graduated', and 'Bridal'. Clean the crystals gently with a lint-free cloth but avoid submerging the thread in water.