Vintage Miriam Haskell Coral Choker Necklace 1970s Signed Natural Coral Beads

Striking natural materials and richly textured metalwork give this signed vintage Miriam Haskell choker an earthy, sculptural character quite different from the elaborate pearl and rhinestone designs most often associated with the celebrated American jewelry house. Dating to the mid to late 1970s, the necklace features deeply textured red coral beads with the naturally porous structure characteristic of sponge and related corals, paired with irregular ivory-colored cube beads that appear to be a natural material, possibly bone.

The composition centers on a substantial rectangular coral bead measuring approximately 3/4 inch long and 5/16 inch across the sides, surrounded by round coral beads measuring approximately 9 mm and smaller irregular coral cubes measuring approximately 5 mm. Each round coral bead is framed by domed antiqued metal petal caps, while tiny pewter-toned spacer beads add another layer of texture. Viewed closely, these unusual spacers have irregular rounded, almost honeycomb-like surfaces, with subtle variations in size and width that complement the organic character of the coral and hand-finished appearance of the necklace.

Measuring approximately 13.5 inches long, the necklace is designed to sit high at the neck as a true choker. It closes with Miriam Haskell's distinctive patented slide clasp, marked with U.S. Patent No. 3,427,691, and retains its signed oval Miriam Haskell hangtag. The unusual combination of porous natural coral, contrasting ivory-colored beads and antiqued decorative metal components makes this an especially interesting example of Haskell's more adventurous later-period jewelry design.

Vintage condition with age-appropriate surface wear and patina to the metal components. The natural beads display inherent variations in color, shape, texture and porosity characteristic of their materials. Please review photographs closely for condition and details.