Czech Art Deco Rhinestone Necklace

From a collection of Art Deco  hand set rhinestone Jewelry that was put aside during WWII and never sold, never worn.  Multicolored stones that are set in brass backing, individually soldered into place and displaying dynamic use of multi colors, patterns and intricate design.

The movie industry had contributed to the popularity of glamorous and intricate rhinestone costume jewelry and a great variety of these types of necklaces and brooches were produced . Czechoslovakia was most famous for its crystal ,glass and rhinestone industries, but like so many artistic creations, these were both hidden and abandoned during WWII ,then  uncovered recently to be offered for sale.

We purchased a collection of these, with no two necklaces exactly alike .  Adding them to a simple “little black dress” or to a formal  gown for a “red carpet worthy” event brings an entire ensemble to life.

Originally, rhinestone jewels were strictly for costume use – for theater and cinema- but they were made popular during the 1920s-1950s frimages in magazines of “starlets” wearing them for dressy occasions and they became a fashion statement every woman could wear.