Lagos Caviar Sterling Silver and Freshwater Pearl Necklace with Toggle Clasp
Jewelry (Necklace) · Lagos; founded by Steven Lagos in Philadelphia in 1977. Recognizable for its distinct 'Caviar' beadwork and bridge jewelry status.
Pattern: Caviar Collection; introduced in 1984. This signature beaded style remains the brand's core identity and is still in active production.
Type
Jewelry (Necklace)
Maker
Lagos; founded by Steven Lagos in Philadelphia in 1977. Recognizable for its distinct 'Caviar' beadwork and bridge jewelry status.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) with cultured freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia or crystal-set rondelles; toggle clasp is solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated 16-18 inches in length; necklace thickness approx. 4-6mm; pearls approx. 8-10mm. Weight approx. 40-60 grams.
Description
An iconic piece of American designer jewelry, this Lagos necklace features the signature Caviar beadwork that mimics the texture of fine roe. The strand is broken by a centerpiece of luminous white freshwater pearls separated by sparkling crystal-set rondelles, finished with a classic decorative toggle clasp.
Key Features
Distinctive Caviar beaded texture, front-closing toggle, freshwater pearl focal point, and the characteristic oxidation that creates high-contrast depth.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) with cultured freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia or crystal-set rondelles; toggle clasp is solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized and bright-polished beads; features the 'Caviar' texture (thousands of hand-cast silver beads). Neoclassical meets modern aesthetic with a toggle closure.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '925' and 'LAGOS' or 'CAVIAR' on the toggle bar or ring. High-end pieces may include hallmark symbols for silver purity.
Construction Details
Cast silver beads on a flexible core. The pearls are strung with crystal rondelle spacers and integrated into the beaded chain via specialized end caps.
Functional Features
Front-facing decorative toggle clasp that serves as both a secure closure and a focal design element. Features heavy-duty silver wire-wrapping for the pearls.
Handle & Grip Details
The toggle clasp is designed for ease of use, featuring a textured ring and a textured bar that locks via gravity and tension.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled casting and polishing. The flexibility of the 'beaded' strand indicates high-quality internal stringing or linking, ensuring it drapes naturally against the neckline.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry and consistency of the 'Caviar' beads; weight of the sterling silver; crispness of the 'LAGOS' stamp (if visible on toggle); high luster of genuine pearls.
Origin & Manufacturing
Designed in Philadelphia, USA; manufacturing often involves high-quality workshops in Thailand or the United States specializing in high-detail silver casting.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary (late 20th to early 21st century). It reflects the 'Bridge' jewelry movement that combines fine silver with organic semi-precious materials.
Age Estimate
Estimated production circa 2000-2015 based on the specific style of the toggle and the use of large baroque-style freshwater pearls.
Cultural Significance
Lagos jewelry represents the democratization of luxury, offering high-craft designer pieces at a price point accessible to professional women during the late 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor tarnish in deep crevices of beads (intentional oxidation intact). Pearls show consistent luster; toggle bar is straight; no missing crystals.
Value Estimate
$350 - $650 USD depending on the specific metal weight and pearl quality. Retail for similar current Lagos styles ranges from $750 to $1,200.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid liquid dips which will strip the intentional oxidation. Use a silver polishing cloth on raised areas only. Store flat to prevent stretching the internal wire and keep pearls away from chemicals.
Similar Pieces
David Yurman (cabled textures), John Hardy (woven textures), and Judith Ripka (bermeil/cz), distinguished by their specific signature metal-working patterns.
Interesting Facts
Steven Lagos was one of the first designers to create a 'signature' texture that made his jewelry instantly recognizable without a logo, a concept known as 'The Lagos Look'.