A striking and exceptionally rare signed William de Lillo necklace, crafted with the sculptural boldness and couture‑level imagination that defined his work after leaving Dior and Miriam Haskell. This piece features oversized milky‑white beads punctuated by ribbed gold‑tone spacers, creating a rhythmic, architectural silhouette that feels both modernist and unmistakably glamorous.
The clasp is signed, confirming its authenticity and placing it among the highly collectible pieces produced during de Lillo’s boutique, small‑run era.
This is not just jewelry — it’s fashion history.
About the Designer — William de Lillo
Belgian-born William de Lillo honed his craft working for some of the most prestigious jewelry houses in the world — Cartier, Harry Winston, Tiffany & Co., and Miriam Haskell — before joining forces with designer Robert F. Clark to form William de Lillo Ltd. in New York City. De Lillo jewelry is considered the "Holy Grail" of collectible costume jewelry — not only because the designs were produced for such a brief period of time, but also because much of the jewelry consisted of one-of-a-kind pieces or limited editions created exclusively for wealthy clients. Their private clientele included the Duchess of Windsor and Elizabeth Taylor. Produced in extremely limited editions, de Lillo jewelry is highly collectible and is kept in museums and private collections worldwide. Pieces bearing the "de Lillo" mark are among the most sought-after finds in the vintage jewelry market.
• Designer: William de Lillo
• Signature: Signed clasp
• Era: 1960s/1970s
• Materials: White resin/acrylic beads, ribbed gold‑tone spacers, gold‑tone hardware
• Construction: Chunky symmetrical beadwork with sculptural gold center
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition, one small mark and one small crack- see photos for details
• Rarity: High — signed de Lillo pieces are scarce, especially in this style
• Style: Modernist, couture‑influenced, bold statement, editorial
*ALL SALES FINAL
