Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. Vintage 1980 18K Gold, Citrine & Diamond Pendant Necklace

A spectacular piece of jewelry history from the very beginning of Paloma Picasso's celebrated collaboration with Tiffany & Co. Dated 1980, this extraordinary pendant necklace captures the bold artistic vision that made her designs so revolutionary—and remains a striking example of jewelry as wearable art.

When Paloma Picasso joined Tiffany & Co. in 1980, she brought an entirely new creative energy to the legendary jewelry house. The daughter of Pablo Picasso and artist Françoise Gilot, she had already established her own artistic identity, with a fearless approach to color, dramatic proportions, and unconventional design. Her work helped redefine contemporary fine jewelry, introducing a confident, expressive aesthetic that celebrated individuality rather than tradition. Her early Tiffany creations are particularly fascinating for their sculptural presence and adventurous use of gemstones.

This remarkable necklace embodies that spirit beautifully. At its center is an impressive 80.96-carat pear-shaped citrine, glowing with rich golden-orange color. A delicate border of round brilliant diamonds, totaling approximately 0.98 carats, surrounds the magnificent gemstone, creating a sparkling contrast that accentuates its generous proportions. The combination of vibrant color, precious metals, and diamonds is unmistakably Paloma Picasso.

What distinguishes this pendant from the citrine necklaces more commonly encountered on the secondary market is its substantial scale and extraordinary gemstone. The beautifully faceted citrine has a commanding presence, while the surrounding diamonds add refinement without diminishing the dramatic simplicity of the design. Suspended from a black silk cord finished with two 18K gold end beads, the necklace reflects Picasso's talent for combining luxurious materials with unexpected, modern elements.

Bearing the 1980 copyright date and Paloma Picasso signature, this is a particularly compelling example of her earliest work for Tiffany & Co. Bold, sophisticated, and wonderfully expressive, it is a significant collector's piece from an important moment in the history of modern jewelry design.

Details

Designer: Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co.

Period: 1980

Metal: 18K Yellow Gold and Platinum

Gemstone: Natural Citrine

Citrine Weight: Approximately 80.96 Carats

Citrine Shape: Faceted Pear Shape

Citrine Color: Rich Orange-Yellow

Citrine Clarity: Eye-Clean, Transparent

Diamonds: Round Brilliant Cut

Total Diamond Weight: Approximately 0.98 Carats

Diamond Color: Near Colorless

Diamond Clarity: Very Slightly Included

Pendant Dimensions: 1.50" Wide × 1.75" Long

Necklace Length: 22"

Cord: Black Silk with Tie Closure

Cord Details: Two 18K Yellow Gold End Beads

Hallmarks: IRID, ©1980 T&Co., Irid. Plat., Paloma Picasso

Total Weight: 57.9 Grams

Condition: Vintage; The Silk Cord was replaced by Tiffany & Co