Please help me identify antique black pearl necklace

[Shana]

This necklace is an antique. I’m almost positive it’s real, I just don’t know much else other than that as far as value and origin. It’s 24 inches long and the pearls are at least 10-12mm in size. It’s almost flawless for its age and seems to be no major imperfections in the size and shape of the pearls. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

The beads do not look like Tahitian pearls. Actually they don't even look like dyed freshwater pearls-- they are too solidly black.

How heavy are they? Could the beads be onyx? If very lightweight, and if you are sure they are antique, could they be jet?

 

[Pearl Dreams]

There is also the possibility that they are just costume jewelry beads of some sort, possibly bakelite.
If heavy, could be glass.

 

[Shana]

They are heavy, yes. I’ve done all of the pearl test and they are gritty and hen rubbed together and on my teeth so I’m not sure. I know they aren’t just some costume jewelry they are older yes.

 

[Pearl Dreams]

Glass would not be gritty, but perhaps onyx would be.

 

[pattye]

Hi Shana,
What a pretty long necklace you have! I must agree with Pearl Dreams, these are definitely not pearls, they are some other kind of bead. My guess would be onyx, too. If the thread is worn you can easily learn how to restring them.

 

[Shana]

I don’t know much about this I’m sorry

 

[Pearl Dreams]

It's an attractive necklace anyway, whatever it is! Enjoy!

If it needs restringing, you might want to have a look at our stringing tutorials and videos on the Lowly Beaders Club forum.

 

[BWeaves]

They look like onxy to me, too.