Antique Baltic Butterscotch Amber Bead Necklace, 104g, 30mm Bead Sac Freres

A substantial and rare quality late 19th century Baltic amber graduated bead opera necklace of impressive scale and presence, composed of finely hand-finished oval amber beads and weighing 104 grams. The amber displays softly layered internal clouding typical of high-quality Baltic succinite, creating depth and warmth when illuminated.

Specifications

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Baltic Region confirmed
Material: Natural Untreated Baltic Amber
Certification: GCS London Report No. 5786-1620
Weight: 104 grams
Length: 86.5 cm, appx 42cm drop when worn
Largest Bead Length: 30.4 mm
Bead Diameter: approx. 14.5 mm – 26.7 mm
Clasp: 18k Gold
Retailer: Sac Frères, Old Bond Street, London
Condition: Great antique condition with professional restringing. A couple of beads have small nibs near the drilled holes which is expected given the age and wear, but are not obvious.

The strand measures 86.5 cm in overall end to end length, allowing it to be worn as a long single opera strand or doubled for a shorter layered look - always measure prior to purchasing please as this depends on size of the neck. The beads graduate smoothly from approximately 14.5 mm to 26.7 mm in diameter, culminating in a prominent central bead and the necklace is centred by it at an impressive 30.4mm! Baltic amber seldom occurs in nodules large enough to yield beads of this size after shaping, making graduated strands exceeding 30 mm at the centre and weighing over 100 grams increasingly uncommon.

Natural internal clouding and subtle tonal variation between beads reflect the organic formation of the material and the hand-worked finishing typical of 19th century amber craftsmanship.

Gemological Certification Services, London (Report No. 5786-1620) confirms:

• Natural resin
• Natural amber
• Baltic origin
• No indications of heating

The necklace has been professionally restrung and fitted with an elegant 18k gold clasp, ensuring both structural integrity and suitability for regular wear while preserving the historic character of the strand.

It is accompanied by its original Sac Frères presentation case from Old Bond Street, London. Sac Frères were recognised specialist dealers in high quality antique Baltic amber jewellery and decorative arts, and pieces retaining their original Sac Frères boxes are frequently encountered in important antique collections and auction catalogues.

A rare and substantial documented example of untreated Baltic amber suitable for the serious collector.

Insurance / Replacement Note

For insurance purposes, replacement of a comparable late 19th century Baltic amber necklace of similar weight, scale, untreated status and certification would require acquisition through a specialist dealer operating within the upper five-figure retail market. A formal insurance valuation can be provided upon request.

**We offer complimentary courier shipping worldwide. Fully insured and tracked.

Condition & Authenticity

Each piece has been carefully inspected and is presented in very good condition, with wear consistent with its age and use. Materials and stones are assessed using standard industry methods and professional experience. Additional images or video are available on request.

Pricing & taxes

Prices are shown as listed. VAT is not charged on purchases.

International orders
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