Citrine, Diamond and Hematite Bead Necklace, 14K Yellow Gold, Circa 1970s

Five strands of hematite beads run in a dense, dark rope from each side, their metallic gray-black surface absorbing light rather than reflecting it; a deliberate foil for the citrine at center. A large trillion-cut citrine, bezel-set in gold, anchors the front, its broad faceted planes catching warm amber light against the matte hematite. Round citrine accents flank it on either side, each set into a gold cone that gathers the bead strands together, with a fine diamond edge tracing the citrine's outline. The pairing of a dark, opaque mineral with a large transparent gem was a hallmark of 1970s statement jewelry, when scale and material contrast mattered more than uniform preciousness. The piece shows no visible wear, tarnish, or loose beads. Measuring 16 inches long, weighing 109 grams total, set with one 30ct triangular mixed-cut citrine, two round citrines totaling 1.25 carats, and 42 single-cut diamonds totaling 0.30 carats, H-I color, SI1-SI2 clarity, on five strands of hematite beads.