Black pearls (which is their official name but really a purplish- bluish beautiful color) hand-wired with an adjustable link back chain. Fresh water pearls are becoming more and more rare and it's nicet to have "real" ones. Your choice of 18 or 20 inches. The back is crafted with 14K gold electroplating over lead free brass. This necklace is stunning as a choker, stand alone or layered with other pieces. It's very versatile.