Bold, colorful beaded necklaces are back in a big way. Chunky Lucite from the 1950s and '80s, and the dark, romantic seed-bead and pendant styles of the '90s "whimsigoth" look, are all turning up in outfits again.
What Is Lucite?
Lucite is a brand name for an acrylic resin introduced by DuPont in the 1930s. Jewelry makers loved it because it could be crystal clear, brightly colored, or made to look like moonglow, confetti or marble. It had big moments in the 1950s and again in the 1980s.
Popular Vintage Lucite Styles
- Moonglow: soft, glowing beads with a pearly inner shine, popular in the 1950s.
- Confetti: clear Lucite with flecks of glitter or color suspended inside.
- Chunky '80s brights: oversized beads in bold colors, often in multi-strand necklaces.
- Carved Lucite: with flowers or designs carved into the back.
How to Tell Vintage Lucite From Modern Plastic
- Weight: Lucite feels denser and heavier than cheap modern plastic.
- The tap test: tap two beads together. Lucite gives a solid click, while lightweight plastic sounds hollow.
- Clarity and depth: good Lucite has a rich, glassy depth.
- Hardware: older clasps such as box clasps, hook clasps and screw barrels hint at age.
- Bead knotting and stringing: look at how it's strung and finished.
The '90s Whimsigoth Look
Think velvet, moons, stars and deep jewel tones. Seed bead necklaces with a pendant, beaded chokers and dark crystal pieces capture that moody, romantic '90s style that younger shoppers are rediscovering.
Caring for Vintage Beaded Necklaces
- Store them flat or loosely coiled so the strands don't stretch.
- Keep Lucite away from heat and harsh chemicals, and wipe with a soft damp cloth.
- Check older stringing before wearing; restringing is easy and keeps a piece safe.
How to Style Them
Layer several strands of different lengths, pair a single chunky strand with a plain sweater or tee, or let one bold piece be the star of an outfit.
See what's in stock in our vintage necklaces collection.
See it in person: beaded necklaces in the shop
Each one is a single piece, so when it's gone, it's gone.
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