Vintage Yves Saint Laurent Necklace

Features

Why we love it

Description & history

A Yves Saint Laurent necklace in gold-plated metal · round pendant with YSL logo encircled by clear rhinestones · adjustable chain from 38 to 43 cm · 1.8 cm pendant · hallmarks on the clasp and back of the pendant · grade B.

The YSL logo is one of the rare fashion monograms that stands on its own as an independent drawing. It was created in 1961 by A.M. Cassandre, a poster artist before becoming the house’s graphic designer, who intertwined the three initials in a vertical composition of perfect legibility. Sixty years later, it is recognisable from a centimetre away. It is this economy of means that gives it its strength — and explains why it works just as well on a tiny piece of jewellery as on a poster.

This necklace offers a deliberately simple interpretation. A 1.8 cm round medallion, where the gold monogram stands out in relief against a textured silver background, surrounded by a ring of clear rhinestones set one by one. The two-tone interplay — the gold of the logo, the silver of the background, the sparkle of the stones — is what makes the piece so appealing: it works with both gold and silver jewellery, which is rare. No rhinestones are missing.

The fine, supple chain is adjustable from 38 to 43 cm: set short, the pendant rests at the base of the neck; lengthened, it falls just below the collarbone. Two ways to wear it depending on the neckline or layering. The house’s hallmarks are present on the clasp and back of the pendant.

Good overall condition, grade B — no missing rhinestones, light signs of previous use. No major flaws to report, with the whole piece documented in photos. Sold with its box and RARR Vintage certificate of authenticity.