THE BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL!…IRADJ MOINI 1990s semi-precious, entirely handmade massive gemstone necklace. Perfect for those who are not afraid to be the center of attention. Features a hand strung 6-strand amethyst centerpiece linked from oval amethyst with smoky quartz drop accented elements on each side suspended from large oval and agate links. Fastens via fishhook style clasp. All gemstones are polished and prongset (except the amethyst strands) on 18 karat gold-plated over brass base metal.Measures 27 1/2″L by 3″ at widest center.Signed IRADJ MOINI.Very good to excellent vintage condition. Vintage retail was over $3500.Iradj Moini Jewelry: 1989 to presentIradj Moini was born in Iran but fled his homeland during the revolution and created extravagant runway pieces and was a leading designer for Oscar de la Renta and other couture designers. .He is an architect by profession, graduating from the University of Buffalo, USA. “I wanted to study fashion, but it was not allowed (by the government of Iran),” Iradj Moini explained in an interview with New York Public Radio.According to the famous designer, the Iranian government would only permit his parents to send him money for his foreign education if he chose a field of study that was considered “productive”.The jewelry created by Moini is mesmerizing, with the main motifs being floral elements and figurines. He initially used materials such as bone, wood, European crystals, as well as oriental precious stones, which are characterized by vivid and bright colors.Over time, Iradj Moini substantially enriched the range of materials he used. He made some astonishing jewelry pieces with pearls, quartz, emeralds, rubies, and the fantastic lapis lazuli stone.Iradj Moini’s creations also have a unique and distinct feature: they are large and voluminous, but very detailed and three-dimensional. Each Iradj Moini jewel is unique in its own way, especially since they are handmade. “Each piece is handmade and inspired to tell a story because each woman has such a presence, you want to cherish that and glorify her,” says Iradj Moini about his creations. His unique, handcrafted creations are one-of-a-kind and he utilizes the highest-end and semi-precious imported stones. It is said that no two pieces are exactly alike. His jewelry was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2006 as a part of Iris Apfel’s collection and was also featured in the Trop Exhibit at the Louvre where he has three pieces in their permanent collection. Recent auctions at Doyle New York saw some phenomenal prices for this contemporary costume jewelry. Signature Designs/Techniques: Imported glass stones, super sized brooches, drop dead gorgeous necklaces, one of a kind jewelry, figurals.