1970s Puig Doria Sterling Modernest Necklace

A native of Spain, Josep Maria Puig Doria studied architecture and design at the Escola Massana in Barcelona before deciding to study to be a silversmith. He opened a small jewelry studio in 1953, the soon expanded into a major jewerly empire in Barcelona. In 1976 he won the International Diamond's Award, he being the first Spanish jeweler to win that prestigious award. It also won the Tahitian Pearl Trophies in 2001 and 2006. In 1991 he was appointed member of the Committee of Honor of the Association Prestige de L'Europe. In 2002 he received the Cross of St. George.

This beautiful necklace circa the early 1970s certainly shows Puig Doria's background in architecture, as it is sculptural, bold and monumental. It is certainly one of his most iconic designs. I call it the whale tail necklace, with each tail floating free on the chest, creating shimmer and reflection at each movement of the body. The collar is in two pieces, jointed in the center with a jump ring, and there is a slight twist at the end so the cascade of tails hangs perfectly. It closes in the back with a hook.

The necklace is stamped Puig Doria, 925 Spain

Neck ring measures 15 3/4" in circumference while the pendant portion measures approximately 6" by 6"

the condition is excellent