Long enough for cat’s cradle — or an instant quadruple chain “stack.” Here we have a vintage Portuguese chain — a “cordão.” These were traditionally worn with other traditional Portuguese gold jewelry, such as the filigree hearts of Viana. These chains were passed down among generations in Portuguese families. Even today, in Viana do Castelo, hundreds of women, often multigenerational within families, parade in an annual Pilgrimage of Nossa Senhora da Agonia wearing regional costume and masses of family heirloom gold jewelry, including chains such as this one. To view some beautiful images, see https://festasdagonia.com/en/a-romaria/desfile-da-mordomia/.

The gold is rich and high karat — in 19.2 karat, typical of Portuguese gold. Wear this chain doubled, tripled, or quadrupled. Suspend a brooch from the gold ring, or use a brooch to secure the chain to a garment for a swagged effect. With nearly 7 feet of chain, play with the myriad configurations!

The chain is “closed” (the gold ring does not open), but it is amply long to quadruple with ease. At buyer’s option, we can open the chain and add an 18k spring ring at a cost to be determined.

Marked on ring and link with Portuguese cat’s head for “800” gold fineness and maker’s mark.

19.2k gold.

Dimensions and weight:

● 83.12 inches long

● 2.3 mm wide (ring is 17.4 mm wide)

● 57.9 grams

Period: 1938-1984

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present.

*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.