This black collar necklace is a handcrafted textile-and-leather jewellery piece made using a traditional pearl setting technique, adapted for a contemporary form. Designed to sit tightly around the neck, it follows the natural neckline and functions as a single, intentional accent rather than a layering accessory. Compact in width but visually dense, the piece reads clearly on the body without relying on scale.
The front surface is constructed from black cotton cords, onto which pearl-tone cut beads are hand-set. The beads have irregular, angular shapes, closer to small triangles or thorns than classic round pearls. This gives the necklace a sharper, more graphic character while retaining the light-reactive quality associated with pearl materials. The outer edge is defined by a cord made from antique metallic thread, handmade by the artist specifically for this piece, which reinforces the collar form and creates a clear visual boundary.
The backside is finished with leather, providing durability, comfort, and a clean contact surface against the skin. The necklace is completed with an adjustable lobster clasp fastening, allowing it to sit securely and closely around the neck.
Key features
- Collar-style necklace designed to sit tightly around the neck
- Width: approximately 3.5 cm
- Front: black cotton cord construction
- Backside: leather backing for comfort and stability
- Pearl-tone cut beads with angular, irregular shapes
- Outline cord made from handmade antique metallic thread
- Hand-applied embellishment using a traditional pearl setting technique
- Adjustable lobster clasp fastening
- One-of-a-kind piece
Why it is special
This necklace applies a heritage pearl setting technique — historically used in textile jewellery and ceremonial adornment — to an unexpected material combination and bead shape. The use of sharp-edged, irregular beads introduces tension between traditional craft and a more graphic, contemporary surface.
The contrast between materials is deliberate: matte black cotton cords on the front, reflective pearl-tone beads, a metallic outline, and a smooth leather backing. The embellishment is structural rather than decorative; it defines the surface, the edge, and how the piece reads when worn.
Only one necklace has been made using this specific bead type, making the piece unique in both material choice and finish
Who it is for
This necklace is for those who think about jewellery in terms of styling and presence. It suits wearers who value visible handwork, contemporary interpretations of heritage techniques, and pieces that function as a single defining element of an outfit. It works particularly well with clean necklines, tailored garments, minimal silhouettes, and evening or editorial styling.
