Signed Vintage ART Cross Rhinestone Pendant Necklace

Some jewelry is beautiful because of how it looks. Other pieces become even more special because of the story they carry. The signed ART centerpiece in this necklace dates to approximately 1960, giving you something increasingly difficult to find: an authentic piece of vintage jewelry history that has been thoughtfully given a new life.

And that is what makes this necklace so extraordinary. Something beautiful from the past has been preserved and transformed into a piece that can express something deeply personal about you today.

This one-of-a-kind handcrafted necklace begins with an authentic signed vintage ART brooch/pendant from the mid-20th century, designed by Arthur Pepper for Mode-Art Jewelry. Its ornate gold-tone filigree creates a beautifully detailed cross design, embellished with deep red rhinestones, luminous faux pearls and turquoise accents. Measuring approximately 1.75" x 1.75", the vintage centerpiece has the intricate detailing, rich color and unmistakable character of a piece that has already lived a life before becoming part of this new creation.

The cross has been reimagined as the focal point of a spectacular 31-inch necklace of turquoise crystals and gold rosary-style chain. The turquoise beautifully echoes the stones in the vintage piece, while the gold chain enhances its warm, old-world character. A fancy gold-tone lobster claw clasp completes the design.

Wear it as a necklace and let the cross rest near your heart as a beautiful and distinctive expression of your Christian faith. The vintage centerpiece can also be detached and worn as a brooch, giving you two entirely different ways to enjoy this remarkable piece.

The Story Behind ART Jewelry

ART jewelry has a fascinating place in American vintage costume jewelry history. Mode-Art Jewelry was founded in New York by designer Arthur Pepper in the late 1940s. The company became known for imaginative, highly decorative costume jewelry featuring ornate metalwork, colorful rhinestones, faux pearls and richly embellished designs.

Beginning in the mid-1950s, many Mode-Art pieces were signed “ART” or “ART©,” the mark by which the company's jewelry became known to collectors. ART jewelry was produced through the following decades, with the company ultimately closing in the 1970s. Today, surviving signed pieces are sought by vintage costume jewelry enthusiasts for their distinctive designs and wonderful mid-century character.

One authentic vintage treasure. One expression of faith. One handcrafted necklace that will never be duplicated.

Handcrafted jewelry MUST be handled with love. Here are some tips to help you care for your handcrafted designs:

• Clean your items with mild soap and hot water and polish with soft cloth. 
• Do not use jewelry cleaning solutions or ultrasonic machines.
• Due to the more delicate nature of handmade items, remove your jewelry before sleeping, showering, exercising or swimming.
• Don’t allow jewelry to come in contact with perfume, sunscreen, skin care, shampoo or chemicals to avoid problems with gemstones or metals.
• Handle with care as these are custom made and often include gemstones and vintage components.