Hi There Mary-
The 'Tin-Cup' style got it's name from a popular movie here in the US starring Kevin Costner and Rene Russo; she wore the necklace throughout the majority of the movie, and revived a beautiful style that can handle day or evening apparel fairly effortlessly
The basic style of the necklace itself uses pearls (or Swarovsky crystals in more fashion-jewelry categories) that have been individually stationed on a Gold or Sterling chain at measured intervals. The result is a very light, airy piece that retains a Classic feel.
Mixing and matching of various media including rough-cut gemstone beads, different pearls and chain lengths are also very popular- I'd love to create one BIG one- like 72" that I could wrap around my neck 2 or 3 times (dreaming!)