(Wearable in 3 elegant variations | Includes original 1950s velvet jewellery box)
There is a particular kind of mid-century glamour that never raises its voice—yet is instantly recognised. This 1950s triple-strand short pearl necklace is precisely that: luminous simulated pearls (with a soft, light-catching overglow) arranged in a graduated three-row formation, finished with a floral starburst clasp that is designed to be seen.
 
Design notes
Three graduating strands of creamy imitation pearls create that quintessential 1950s “proper” neckline—polished, flattering, and endlessly wearable. The graduation is subtle and intentional: it gives the necklace dimension and that couture-like drape that photographs beautifully.
The focal point is the flower/starburst clasp, set with sparkling paste (rhinestone) stones—paste being a finely cut glass used in jewellery to emulate gemstones, prized for its brilliance and polish.
The overall effect is classic “cocktail-hour” refinement—pearls for poise; sparkle for presence.
 
Clasp & construction
From the photographs, the necklace appears to feature a decorative box clasp (the classic tongue-in-box mechanism), chosen for security and for style. Mid-century makers often intended these ornate clasps to be worn visibly—at the side or even at the front—turning the fastening into a design feature rather than something to hide.
 
3 ways to wear it (as shown in your display photos)
Front & centred (three-row graduation) — the most classic, balanced look; perfect with open collars and structured necklines.
Clasp worn at the side — an instant “Parisian” trick: understated pearls with a deliberate, asymmetric flourish.
Clasp worn forward as a focal jewel — transforms the necklace into a necklace-and-brooch hybrid effect, ideal for evenings.
 
Era: 1950s
The short “princess” style, the triple-strand pearl construction, and the rhinestone/paste floral clasp—a very typical 1950s approach to “dress jewellery” that could move from daytime polish to evening glamour by simply rotating the clasp.
 
Provenance & collector value
The fact that it comes in its original 1950s velvet jewellery box elevates it immediately—boxes are often lost over decades, and originals add tangible period authenticity and giftability.
Collector appeal also lies in versatility: one necklace, three distinct moods, all era-correct. This is exactly the kind of piece collectors keep because it solves styling—it finishes an outfit in seconds, without looking “overdone.”
 
Styling guidance
Day (quiet luxury): white shirt, cashmere, a clean blazer, or a silk slip dress—wear with the clasp slightly to the side.
Evening (mid-century glamour): black dress, red lip, hair swept back—wear with the clasp centred as a statement jewel.
Modern bridal: ivory, champagne, blush—pearls and paste photograph beautifully in warm light and feel perfectly “period” without being costume-y.
If you share the exact length (and whether the clasp has a safety catch/chain), I can tailor the listing copy with precise fit notes and a tighter “collector spec” section.
 
- c.1950s
- Imitation Pearl, pave and chrome plated metal
- In excellent vintage condition. No defect or damage or damage. Please see close up video for quality assurance. 
- Measures: 37 cm long
- Sourced from a coveted vintage fair in London, England.