Each piece in this necklace is an irregular chip of natural coral, dyed in a palette that moves between chalk white and soft violet lavender, with flashes of deeper purple where the dye has pooled into the coral's porous surface. No two chips are identical. The organic variation in shape and tone gives the strand a quiet, mineral beauty, finished with a small gold-tone barrel clasp. Substantial in length, it drapes with the relaxed weight of something genuinely natural.
Layer this over a raw linen shirt in ecru or slate for an effortless, textural contrast. It sits beautifully against terracotta, rust, and dusty rose tones, where the lavender reads as an unexpected and sophisticated counterpoint.
Keen to add these to your collection? Shop at paintedbird.nz
Circa: 1970 - 2000
Origin: Apricot Gift Boutique
Label: na
Material: Dyed natural coral, gold-tone brass barrel clasp
Condition: New (Deadstock). Excellent, unworn.
Care: Keep dry. Avoid perfume and water. Store separately to protect.
Modern Size Indicator*: OSFM
Measurements: Collarbone length
Fixture: Gold-tone barrel clasp
Features: Irregular natural coral chip beading, chalk white to soft lavender and violet dyed colouration, organic variation in chip size and shape throughout, gold-tone barrel clasp with bead detail to reverse, substantial full-strand weight
ABOUT APRICOT GIFT BOUTIQUE
This exclusive range originates from Apricot Gift Boutique, a store established circa 1984 in the heart of the beachside suburb of Mairangi Bay, New Zealand. The store was owned and operated by Colombian artist Helizabeth Borrero de King, offering a snapshot of her love of fashion, style, and all that glitters. A gift and jewellery store with a little taste of everything, it catered to a diverse group of locals, fashionistas, and supported artisans. The store was known for embracing community and culture, as well as bringing a unique overseas perspective to the area. Brought to you in this collection are some of the surviving pieces from the store's closure in the early 1990s. Each piece is unique and brings joy to the wearer.
NOTE: Sale Items/Damaged Items cannot be exchanged, refunded or returned. Colours may display differently on various devices.
We estimate sizes as current or, 'modern' sizing rather than vintage sizing as eras do vary.
Please take a moment to check if this item will fit! View our Sizing Chart (opens in a new window).
Still not sure? Just email us the details of this piece and your measurements, and we can help you check if it will fit before you purchase.
Please take a moment to view our Refund Policy! Under the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act, stores providing second-hand or used clothing do not come under the same regulations as newly made clothing. Read our full Refund Policy for Painted Bird, Stylist Services and The Aviary (opens in a new window). We cannot refund or exchange earrings, hair accessories or face masks for hygiene reasons. We also cannot refund or exchange gift cards. Cancellation and 'no-show' appointments made for stylist and fitting room services are also subject to a no refund policy.
Still not sure? We'll gladly hold this item for you for 24 hours while we provide measurements of this item on request. Don't miss out - email us today.
Sizing - Use our handy sizing guide to help you with your choice
Shipping - We overcharge for shipping! That way we can refund what we don't use
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