Sciacca coral is a rare, fossilized form a Mediterranean red coral, found in the Sicilian Channel, named for the nearby port of Sciacca, Sicily. Its unique color, ranging from intense orange to salmon-pink with brown or black spots, results from intense underwater volcanic activity that occurred centuries ago, transforming the living coral into a unique sub-fossil material.
Sciacca coral was first discovered near the port of Sciacca in 1875, and its discovery led to a major boom in coral processing, particularly in Torre del Greco near Naples. In 1914, the coral deposit became completely depleted, which makes it very collectable today.
In this example, tiny sciacca coral beads have been used to create five ascending spheres on a woven chain, creating a beautiful and timeless design. It is completed by an antique clasp which was added by me because its clasp was missing, which depicts two clasping hands, known as the 'fede' symbol. Since this symbol was used in Roman art profusely, I though its design would be fitting for this Italian jewel.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 54 cm / 21.25 inches. The smallest sphere has a diameter of 16 mm; the largest has a diameter of 22 mm.
Weight: 35 grams.
Age: The necklace was created around 1900. The original clasp was missing, so I had it replaced with an antique clasp, which was made around the 1860s.
Material: The clasp is acid tested as 9k gold.
Condition: In great antique collection with only minor wear, consistent with age. There is a small repair on the clasp: this can be seen in the pictures.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only. This store is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties and VAT.