Diamonds by the Yard

Diamond-set chains have been popular throughout jewelry history. Examples from the Edwardian Period, early 20th Century, can still be readily found.   It was not until 1974, when the Italian designer Elsa Peretti joined Tiffany & Co. that they became known as “Diamonds By the Yard”.  This name is a wonderful play of words equating diamonds with other common apparel components that are sold by the yard. Peretti’s necklaces are designed as a neck chain, often a cable link, accented with bezel-set round brilliant cut diamonds at measured distances.  This style of chain can make a simple elegant statement or a Wow! with ribbons of never ending diamonds.

Diamonds-by-the-yard-style necklaces come in many variations of size and number of diamonds. The number of diamonds is generally an odd number, beginning with one very small round brilliant cut diamond to the limit of your imagination. These necklaces are elegant, yet casual enough for everyday, but take on a whole new look when worn in a dramatic rope length chain that can be worn long or wrapped around the nape of the neck or a combination of the two lengths. This style looks great with the tunic tops and dresses that are so popular this Summer.