Anna Klein Beaded Necklace

• Brand: Anna Klein
• Period / Year: 1980s – 1990s
• Style: The necklace has an outspoken statement appearance and is designed in a layered choker style. The design is luxurious and striking, typical of the power dressing of the 1980s. With its expressive and elegant form it is a piece that emphasises the neckline and pairs perfectly with both formal outfits and daring vintage looks.
• Materials: The beads are made of high-quality plastic (acrylic) with a glass-like transparency and a warm amber-coloured sheen. The chain cords are made of gold-tone metal, probably gilt brass or coated wire. The metal parts and clasp are also finished in gold-tone metal, possibly a zinc or brass alloy.
• Design: The design consists of nine layers of beaded cords of different lengths arranged symmetrically. Each strand contains round beads with a subtly ribbed texture, varying in size. The warm yellow-gold/amber colour catches the light beautifully and gives the piece depth. The wide, collar-like shape allows the necklace to fold elegantly around the neck and feel like a couture piece.
• Clasp: The necklace features a toggle clasp, a T-shaped closure consisting of a bar that is pushed through a ring. This clasp is firmly attached to rectangular, perforated end pieces where the strands come together. In addition, there is a decorative ribbon, possibly intended as extra security or a visual detail.
• Dimensions: 37 cm
• Signed

Anne Klein was born as Hannah Golofsky on 3 August 1923 in Brooklyn. After her marriage to Ben Klein in the 1940s she took the name Anne Klein and grew into an icon of American fashion.

In 1968 she founded Anne Klein & Co. She was known for her refined style and understood better than anyone what women wanted. In the early 1970s she expanded her collection with high-quality watches and jewellery, made of glass, rhinestones, cabochons and faux pearls.

She collaborated with renowned brands such as Erwin Pearl, Accessocraft and Swank. Her signature logo – the lion – became one of the most recognisable symbols within her jewellery line.

Anne Klein passed away in 1974 at the age of 50, at the height of her success.