Max Neiger / Neiger Brothers Art Deco Czech glass 1920's art deco beaded necklace:
~ Features a highly unusual mix of glass and early man made mystery material beads
~ The off white decorative pressed or molded glass beads are uranium glass and are a mix of highly patterned large beveled or faceted glass beads that illuminate under black light to a bubble gum pink color and smaller round (also patterned) accent beads that glow to the classic lime green shade under UV light
~ The peach or melon colored round oval beads are a bit of a mystery to me. They are not glass for certain - but an early man made material of some sort. They do not test to be bakelite. Perhaps a close relative of bakelite (and just as desirable) vintage material such as vulcanite, French bakelite, goliath, catalin, lucite, celluloid or similar
~ Hand knotted between each bead to protect these little treasures in case of breakage
~ Very long flapper length suitable to double and/or layer up with other favorites
~ Loaded with uniqueness, personality and character - quite the conversation piece
Ready and waiting for your neckline, wardrobe, collection or gift giving - you will love this!
AGE OR ERA: True antique / vintage jewelry piece - 1920's. This is most likely a pre-1922 piece as with the discovery of King Tut's tomb in November of 1922, their creations very much reflected their shift in interest towards the wildly popular Egyptian (and other complimentary exotic ethnic) themed motifs. Although the patterns on the uv beads are quite Egyptianesque and somewhat resemble hieroglyphics - so one can see some slight or light Egyptian influence in the beads
MARKINGS: None that I could find - which is typical for their jewelry
METAL/MATERIAL: Mixed uranium glass beads and peach colored beads of a mystery man made material
CLASP / CLOSURE: No clasp - slide over the head to wear
MEASUREMENTS: Aprox 64" long. The largest beveled uranium glass beads are about 5/8" long x 3/8" wide. The peach or melon colored beads vary in size from about 7/16" long to 5/16" long. Considered a "Rope or Lariat" length at well over 45" and would fall past the navel (more so to the groin) if worn as a single strand.
WEIGHT: x
TESTING: UV light reactive to two different shades - see pic(s)
U.S. RING SIZE: x
HISTORY, PROVENANCE, ANECDOTAL, METAPHYSICAL, SYMBOLISM &/or LORE: Neiger Brothers jewelry is well known and beloved for incorporating beautiful Czech art glass beads, large (mostly) figural focal beads and pendant drops, and detailed metal caps & findings.
Max and Norbert Neiger were Czechoslovakian brothers who made pieces with mainly glass components in Gablonz, Czechoslovakia - circa 1905 to the 1930s. They were Czech citizens, as were their ancestors, but they also had German Nationality. Style wise - the Neiger brothers took full advantage of the Egyptian Revival craze, beginning with the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in 1922. As well they should have, like so many of the art deco jewelry designers did at that time. They continued to add more “exotic” ethnic lines, including with Chinese and Indian motifs. They produced hypnotizing brooches, beautiful beaded necklaces and fascinating bracelets, all eye-catching and of the highest quality. Today smart collectors are giving Max and Norbert's creations a well-deserved renaissance. Their hard to find, hand made, original wares are scarce (especially in nice condition) due to the small number of pieces made and limited production time as they experienced a tragic end...... As the Germans advanced near Gablonz in 1939, the two Jewish brothers left their factory and escaped to Bohemia. They continued to create jewelry in a scaled-down operation for just a few years. They were unfortunately arrested in Prague in 1942 and passed at Auschwitz.
*** The photo included is of Max himself taken from his 1924 driver's license
JUST FOR FUN - AI DESCRIPTION - (GENERATED BY ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE): This stunning necklace from the Neiger Brothers is a rare and unique piece of vintage jewelry. With a length of 64 inches, it features mixed materials including early plastic and glass beads in two colors. The necklace is a statement piece that would be perfect for any occasion, from stocking stuffers to formal events. The necklace has a rich history and is full of intrigue, with a style that is both Art Deco and European. It is handmade and features a ethnic and historical theme, making it a truly special and meaningful gift. Whether you're looking for a graduation present, birthday gift, or just a unique addition to your jewelry collection, this Neiger Brothers necklace is sure to impress.
CONDITION: Great vintage condition given the rarity and collectibility - looks to be all intact and free from damage. The peach beads all exhibit a slight crackle or egg shell finish to the surface texture from age I imagine - most unnoticeable unless looking very closely - I can't see with without 10x magnification. See last photo for extreme close up detail. Both types of uranium glass beads are nice condition all around. In an excellent state of preservation.
INVENTORY NUMBER OR NOTE: x
"A picture is worth a thousand words"
Please view & enlarge photographs to closely inspect fine details and to determine the amount of patina and/or wear. Most older pieces by nature normally have some degree of both and, unless severe, aren't considered damaged and not mentioned. Especially if obvious and/or prominent in the photos. Individuals do have varying levels of desire and tolerance for "vintage charm" so do utilize the scroll arrows beside the photos to allow yourself the opportunity to view them all, as they are an important integral part and extension of the description.
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