Jade Necklace

I've worn this necklace nearly every day since late February, and I'm the person whose necklaces always turn on her. The chain still looks freshly dipped, no darkening at the clasp, no dull patches where it rubs my collarbone. The green stone hasn't faded or clouded even slightly, and I was sure a colored stone would be the weak point. My previous favorite necklace left a gray shadow on my neck by month two. This one has survived perfume, sunscreen, sweat, and a very humid Carolina spring with zero maintenance. Four and a half months in, it's still the first thing I put on.

Memorial Day weekend at Lake Norman was this necklace's trial by fire. I swam with it, tubed with it, showered with it, and fell asleep in it every night for four days. The green teardrop came home as deep and glassy as ever, and the chain didn't develop a single dark spot. I usually assign an old sacrificial necklace to lake trips because water kills my jewelry. Not anymore. It's been through daily showers ever since without any change. The stone actually looks even prettier wet.

My skin flags every necklace within a day, an itchy red line right where the chain sits, sometimes little bumps by the clasp. I'd switched to wearing pendants on silk cords, which looks as sad as it sounds. This chain has now been on my neck for two months straight, including sweaty runs and hot commutes. Zero reaction. No itch, no redness, no green tint on my skin. My dermatologist asked what changed and I showed her the necklace. If your neck is as dramatic as mine, this one behaves.

Four months of daily wear and the stone is as deep green as ever. The chain hasn't darkened where it touches my skin. This one is in it for the long haul.

It sits flat enough to wear under a collared blouse without making a lump or catching on the buttons. When I wear it out over a tee, it hangs perfectly centered. Works both ways, comfortable both ways.

My order took its sweet time getting to me, closer to two weeks than one. The necklace itself made up for it — the green teardrop is even lovelier in person. Just do not order last minute for a birthday like I did.