Antique Pierced Link Conversion (15.5")

Bestill my beating heart, this might be the BEST pinchbeck pierced link I've ever had in. The condition is PERFECT - no squished links, no repairs - just lovely links. Someone has taken an old pinchbeck long guard, chopped it up, added some links for length and made a stunning necklace. It came to me with an ugly bolt ring which I have chopped off and added a dog clip because the chain deserved a clasp as beautiful as its links. Stunning colour, stunning movement. A perfect chain for someone who wants a piece with volume, history and design for an affordable price. 
 
People ask me all the time if I think pinchbeck or rolled gold is better. To be honest, I like them about equal for different reasons. Rolled gold tarnishes much more slowly, which is great - it tarnishes like 9ct gold tarnishes. Pinchbeck tarnishes more quickly - more like silver - but like silver it's super easy to shine up, and because it's a solid metal (the core and surface are made of the same thing) you don't need to be careful when polishing it and can go absolutely ham. At the end of the day it comes down to your interest (both have significant historical significance), lifestyle (pinchbeck is better worn often like silver, the natural oils in your skin protect it, although sweat can speed up tarnishing) and colour choice (rolled gold is generally a little warmer, like 9ct antique gold whereas pinchbeck is more of a yellow). 
 
Metal: Pinchbeck 
 
Length: 15.5 inches 
 
Chain Width: 1.8mm x 4 
 
Weight: 22g 
 
Age: Antique 
 
Condition Note: Excellent Antique Condition