Dark gray oxidized sterling beads, graduated from large to smaller, top each end of the 5 strands and then are gathered into ornately patterned little cones which connect to small 10mm antique silver plated steel rings.
The dense pearl focal point is just under 9" long from ring to ring and the pearls each average 5mm x 3mm. The center front of the focal hangs down about 1 1/2". The variations in the deep ruby pink color, as the small organic freshwater pearls each take the dye in their own way add a depth and richness to the overall color.
See notes below about different ways to wear this WillOaks Studio original design.
Edition size is 5 and there will be subtle variations in the color and pattern of the hand painted silk ribbon. There are 2 pink pearl bibs still available as of 2-7-12. This piece was designed 9-2011.
Notes about WillOaks Studio Pearl Bib Necklaces:
I began to develop this bib design structure for pearls a couple of years ago. Earlier versions used silver chain, crocheted silk chain, and beaded "chains" to hold this multi strand cluster of pearls.
About this time last year, I discovered and began to use artisan dyed handmade silk ribbons to secure them. I love this approach because the "cluster" can be beautifully worn at different lengths from a high choker to a longer opera length. Since the handmade ribbons are around 40" long, there are many different looks that can be achieved with these pieces.
Because pearls are a natural, variable material and dye lots will vary I often cannot get more of a given pearl lot. So when they are sold out, that edition is usually complete.
The range of uses for these pieces is really exciting. Some examples include formal wear with a bow in the back over a sleeveless gown; with a bow tied on the side with a semi-formal top; tied higher as a kind of ascot under a blouse or button down shirt, peeking from between collars; tied long and loose over a turtleneck sweater and worn with jeans.
I've been a huge fan of pearls for many years so I don't think they need to be saved just for formal wear (although they are certainly perfect worn this way!) I love them with business suits, with dresses or with a blouse and jeans. And my bib design can be adjusted to handle different necklines so has the versatility to move from the board room to the dance floor! Enjoy!!
I am always hunting for new pearl colors and sizes to design with, so check back regularly!
See more original WillOaks Studio necklace designs here http://www.etsy.com/shop/WillOaksStudio?section_id=7593416 and browse my whole studio by entering here http://www.etsy.com/shop/WillOaksStudio. Thank you for stopping by!
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