Vicenza is known as a quality gold making city, and this beautiful vintage chain is no exception. The 18k gold links are a groovy, flattened version of a Byzantine link with a yin and yang aesthetic. The necklace’s length graces the collarbone— a great length for an everyday chain that looks good worn alone but can also accommodate a pendant.
The city of Vicenza has been known as the gold smithing capital of Italy for over 700 years. The first goldsmith guild was founded in Vicenza in 1333, and the city has remained one of the most important jewelry making districts ever since.
The necklace is marked on the last link with 13VI for Vicenza and Balestra, as well as the maker’s mark for Balestra and 750. It is also marked 750 on the spring ring clasp.
The chain is 14 3/4” long and the links are 2.4 mm wide. It weighs 9.1 grams.
Circa the 1970’s or 1980’s.
