Soirée

The identification of the beads starts from the bead in the centre, moving upwards, with measurement for some of the bigger beads, with metal beads named last. 

Length: 49 cm (19.5”) Weight: 117 gm 

Faceted red agate: 8 mm & 17 mm 

Golden rutilated quartz: 14 & 16 mm 

Natural citrine: 8 mm 

Gold-plated metal discs 

Gold-plated silver spacers 

Gold-plated granulated metal spacers 

Gold-plated silver toggle clasp 

Gold-plated silver Manik identity disc 

I set out to design a short necklace with the 17 mm honeycomb faceted red agate because I just love how the light bounces off the honeycombed surfaces of these wine-red agate beads that remind me of luscious grapes ! Given the intensity of the agate, it had to be ‘balanced’ off with something lighter in tone, and yet, rich and warm, so out came the golden rutilated quartz which I always find so versatile. 

When the design came together, I was surprised by the overall effect of it. The large honeycomb faceted red agate beads catch and scatter the light beautifully, lending the necklace a lively glow and an atmosphere of understated glamour. The interplay of deep crimson, golden honey tones, and translucent warmth evokes candlelit elegance, yet the design remains versatile and wearable beyond evening occasions.  

I am calling it Soirée because the necklace conjures up the ambience of an elegant, refined evening party, with good conversation and music. That said, the necklace will transition well from evening to daytime wear. I put it against a golden brown, navy and olive, and they were all compatible! Experiment and enjoy!