Exceptional Large Natural Vermillion Color Faceted Antique Baltic Amber Necklace

Superb, rare natural translucent faceted Baltic amber necklace of impressive size, gem quality and color reminiscent of fine rich cognac. This necklace has been tested for natural amber and has a high degree of electrical attraction. The reddish orange, vermillion color is scarcely seen in natural amber necklaces of this scale. Amber has long been associated with the power of attraction and excellent communication, as is the color red- making this necklace doubly desirable. 38.5 inches (97.8cm) long, 31mm by 14mm to 13mm by 9mm Late 19th Century Provenance: Estate of a US Ambassador Composed of 67 hand faceted graduated amber beads measuring 31mm to 13mm, well matched, translucent, some with natural inclusions. Slightly varying in shape and faceting consistent with being hand made and soft from handling over time. Very minor abrasions observed under magnification. A necklace of this size and quality would most assuredly have been created for a member of the aristocracy. A very similar necklace is illustrated in Louis Sherr Dubin's The History of Beads, from 30,000 BC to the Present, page 295 with the description: Faceted Baltic amber (succinite) said to have belonged to a member of the Russian imperial court. The amber was cut in the Baltic at Konigsberg. Center bead length, 3.1 cm. Collection Wolf Hunger, London A smaller size faceted amber necklace of similar color and shape was sold at Christie's, New York, June 3, 2003, Sale 1240, Lot 57.