Spectacular Antique Mediterranean Coral Necklace – 80cm, 40g in excellent condition. Presenting an exceptional, museum-quality antique natural Mediterranean coral (Corallium rubrum) necklace dating from the late Victorian to the Art Deco era. Weighing a substantial 40 grams and measuring an impressive, versatile 80 cm in length, this heirloom piece is a masterclass in historic lapidary craftsmanship. It is the ultimate acquisition for discerning collectors of fine antique jewellery and investment-grade precious coral. The coral boasts a highly coveted, rich reddish-salmon hue, the definitive signature of authentic, undyed Mediterranean coral historically harvested from the waters surrounding Sardinia and expertly worked in the legendary workshops of Torre del Greco, Italy. Unlike modern treated or dyed alternatives, this natural coral displays a pristine, soft-sheen patina and deep organic warmth that only centuries-old marine treasures possess. Masterful Lapidary Cut What elevates this necklace from a casual souvenir to a true work of art is its exquisite hand-cut construction. Often referred to by collectors as organic nugget, branch, or dog-bone beads, each individual piece has been painstakingly hand-beveled, filed, and polished to harmonise perfectly with the natural contour of the original coral branch.Rather than being forced into rigid, uniform rounds, the ends of these beads are hand-tailored to interlock seamlessly. They nestle snugly against one another like a jigsaw puzzle, eliminating awkward gaps, maintaining a dense and luxurious drape, and providing a wonderfully smooth feel against the skin. The Monogrammed Barrel Clasp: The necklace features its original, cylindrical slide-barrel clasp, a classic secure fastening mechanism indicative of late 19th to early 20th-century craftsmanship. Bespoke "M" Engraving: The center of the barrel sleeve is beautifully hand-engraved with a prominent, highly stylized Gothic Serif / Old English letter "M". This is not a mass-produced manufacturer's stamp; it is a custom, deep-set family monogram commissioned by the original wealthy owner, marking this as a unique piece of personalised history. Master Stringing: Demonstrating exceptional care, the terminal ends right before the clasp feature four to five tight, hand-tied safety knots. This traditional method serves as a shock absorber at high-tension points and acts as a security feature, ensuring that if the necklace ever catches, your investment remain entirely safe. Perfect for wearing as a long, elegant single strand or doubling up for a layered look. Condition: Excellent antique condition with perfectly tight stringing and a gorgeous natural patina. Collector's Note With international regulations tightly restricting the harvesting of Corallium rubrum, authentic, heavy-weight antique Italian coral of this length and quality is becoming vanishingly rare. This necklace represents not only a wearable piece of history but a steadily appreciating tangible asset. MEASUREMENTS Weight approximately 40 grams Chain measures approximately 80 centimetres Note: Many of my items are vintage and are therefore likely to show some age-related wear. This can include things such as: scratches, discolouration, repairs etc. Please be sure to look through each photograph carefully and read the description fully, to get an idea of condition. Import taxes are buyers responsibility!