Fashion Jewelry Beaded Necklaces

Whether they’re chunky, statement-making accessories or a single strand of the understated sort, fashion beaded necklaces are versatile pieces of costume jewelry. Indeed, the vintage beaded necklaces in your jewelry box likely go with everything, from casual summer tops and shorts to dazzling evening gowns.

Costume jewelry, which is also called fashion jewelry, is designed to accessorize with current fashions and is typically made with inexpensive materials. In the realm of fine jewelry, beaded necklaces originating during the Art Deco era might feature double rows of jade — this period encompasses the 1920s and ’30s and ushered in a very distinct look in jewelry design — whereas accessories in the collection of fashion jewelry on 1stDibs are more often made with glass beads or moonstone.

From the fish-bone and seashell jewelry of the prehistoric era to the breathtaking amulets and pendants of ancient Egypt to modern sapphire beads, people have been accessorizing with beaded necklaces for eternity.

Beaded necklaces — as well as other kinds of necklaces — were common in prehistoric times. Personal adornment was important, and jewelry was made for every part of the body. Beadwork is among the best known art forms attributed to Native Americans, and just as they had for saddlery and clothing, early populations would fashion beads for necklaces with stone tools or instruments made of wood. The making of colorful glass beads for beaded necklaces likely originated in Venice, Italy, during the 14th century, particularly given the growth of the decorative glass industry on the series of Venetian islands called Murano. During the Neolithic period, humans were buried with coral beaded necklaces from the Mediterranean, even as far north as the Alps.

When it comes to fashion necklaces, remember that different necklines call for different pieces of jewelry.

When accessorizing with a beaded necklace, a long piece with a pendant will likely pair best with your favorite vintage V-neck dress or V-neck tee, while beaded chokers and collar necklaces are a stylish fit for strapless tops. Bigger beads will hit your neckline in a different way than a more minimalist necklace might, so you’ll want to keep that in mind. Choose colors you like and pick items that will go with what is in your closet. When the occasion calls for it, don’t be afraid to stack. “More is more” for some, so pairing a delicate strand with a bolder piece might be the move for you.

Shop fashion beaded necklaces and other vintage costume jewelry on 1stDibs.