1961 Monet "Bolero" Lariat Necklace — Double Rolo Chain with Acorn Pendants, Unsigned
A rare and beautifully preserved example of Monet's iconic 1961 "Bolero" lariat necklace — a documented book piece featured on pages 190–191 of Alice Vega's definitive collector's reference, Monet: The Master Jewelers. This is a recognized design in the serious vintage costume jewelry collector community.
The necklace features Monet's signature double-strand rolo chain with evenly spaced flattened bar links, terminating in two dramatic 1-inch acorn pendants — each with a textured hammered gold-tone cone cap over a large smoky iridescent ball drop. The construction, chain pattern, and pendant design are uniquely attributable to Monet's factory work of this period.
A Note on the Signature Tag: Monet's "Bolero" was signed via a small metal hang tag attached near the clasp — a separate element that frequently separated from the chain over decades of wear and storage. The absence of the tag on this piece is well-documented and does not indicate a reproduction. The design itself is the authentication.
Details:
- Designer: Monet (unsigned — hang tag absent, as commonly found)
- Design: "Bolero" Lariat, 1961
- Reference: Alice Vega, Monet: The Master Jewelers, pp. 190–191
- Chain: Double-strand rolo with flattened bar link spacing
- Pendants: Two 1-inch acorn drops — textured hammered gold-tone cone caps over smoky iridescent balls
- Length: 28 inches
- Finish: Monet proprietary triple-gold plating
- Condition: Very good vintage condition — very slight wear consistent with age, most visible at clasp and bar links; chain bright and intact
- Clasp: Original spring ring
A genuine piece of mid-century American jewelry history. Monet was known for exceptional quality and longevity — this necklace, over 60 years old, is a testament to that craftsmanship.