Glamorous High Carat Gold "Tubogas" Necklace, c. 1950

In the 1930s, a technical innovation caused a fashionable sensation in Europe's major cities: the so-called gas pipe chain. It owes its name to a new engineering achievement at the time. Shortly before, it had been possible to develop particularly durable gas pipes made of metal that were stable, flexible and bendable at the same time. This characteristic grooved tube shape soon inspired goldsmiths. In the English-speaking world, the technology became known as "gas tubes" or "tubogas" - a name that has remained in use in the jewelry sector to this day. Technically, the gas tube chain is based on a principle that is as sophisticated as it is elegant. Narrow metal strips - usually made of gold - are folded in such a way that they interlock like a tongue-and-groove system. This creates a flexible yet stable hollow body that can be moved smoothly. The surface has a uniform grooved structure, while individual links remain invisible. The result looks like a continuous, movable metal hose - a design principle that can still be seen in shower hoses today. Here, however, it is applied with the highest level of craftsmanship. The curved, slightly flattened necklace is completely flexible and hugs the neck with a comfortable weight and secure hold. The necklace widens towards the middle, creating a particularly impressive, prestigious effect. The high-carat necklace is in very good condition and came to us from the estate of an art-loving Berlin family. Simple in its form, yet sophisticated in its construction, it combines technical inspiration with masterly goldsmithing - and looks just as modern today as it did at the time of its creation. We date it to around 1950.

Estimate:£10,949.15

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