Looking as new as when it was made in the early 1960's this Monet gold tone metal -inspired pendant necklace features a triple pagoda design with dragons in each pagoda. From their Shanji line it is rare to find one of these in such Excellent Vintage Condition. The Shanji line was patented by Monet in 1962 and pieces from this line are highly collectible.

Exquisitely made, it is a statement necklace. The pagodas and dragons are three-dimensional and the pagodas are graduated in height and articulated so the pendant will move as you do wearing it.

At the top the smallest pagoda measures 1 and 5/8 inches wide by 1 and 5/8 inches high, including the bale. In the center that pagoda is 2 inches wide by 1 and 1/8 inches tall, including the links. The third and largest pagoda is 2 and 3/8 inches wide by 1 and 1/16 inches tall. The entire pendant is 3 and 7/8 inches in length.

As you can see in the photos the gold tone metal has different textures which contribute to the designer quality of this piece. Some areas are shiny, some are etched and some are raised and almost appear to be ribbed.

This statement pendant hangs from a well made snake style chain that is 18 and 1/2 inches long. One chain attaches to each side of the bail for the pendant. Those chains are individually attached to the bale in a design that mimics the ornamental roof line of a pagoda.

Both the back fold over clasp and the largest pagoda are marked Monet. For the clasp it is on the back and for the pagoda it is on the left bottom back side.

A US quarter is shown in some photos to help you gauge the relative size.

In the photos I attempted to show how clean the metal is and how well the chains and pendant move. There is no visible wear in spite of the age.

Virtually everyone knows the name "Monet", however not many of us know that it actually stands for Monocraft Products Company and that this jewelry designer started business in 1927. Monet helped make costume jewelry available for every woman and the company still exists, in part because their quality is a known commodity.

This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Bradenton, FL.