The Encyclopedia · Settings & techniques
Beaded gold
Small balls of gold set in a row along the edge of a jewel, giving a delicate border.
A beaded edge frames a stone or a motif. Van Cleef & Arpels has made it a signature on its Alhambra jewels and calls it perlée.
What to look for
Look for flattened or missing beads, especially on rings and bracelets that see daily wear.
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