Butler and Wilson Signed Original 1980's Statement Crystal Cross Pendant & Crystal Necklace

'Butler & Wilson' Signed Original 1980s Statement Crystal Cross Pendant & Crystal Necklace featuring a pendant cross with 6 large faceted claw set creamy-white crystals and each crystal with 3 small crystals set at the base of its casing.  This gorgeous crystal necklace measures 40cm long with an additional extender of 8cm finished with a single crystal - the photos show the longest and shortest lengths.  The crystal cross measures 6.3cm including the small bail and is 4.5cm wide. It has the full signature 'BUTLER & WILSON' in a round cartouche on the reverse of the cross - the later versions are signed 'B&W'. A really lovely piece, full of sparkle and weighing 29.4g.

In the early 1970’s, two British Antique jewellers and designers, Nicky Butler and Simon Wilson started their own company, Butler & Wilson. Their jewellery was well made and utilised Austrian rhinestones and crystals all prong set and set into base gun metal, rhodium, polished gold plated or silver plated metals.  The partnership broke up in the 1990’s with Simon Wilson retaining the Butler and Wilson name.  Since that time, Nicky Butler, under his own name, has designed and manufactured costume jewellery.

Princess Diana had a known affinity for 'cheap jewellery', relishing the chance to trick royal watchers into believing these pieces were of royal heritage.  According to an online account by Simon Wilson, the co-owner of Butler and Wilson, the Princess would make discreet visits to the store every few months, or during a rare free afternoon, accompanied by just one bodyguard, and would "behave like a normal customer".   She would select an item, like a pair of earrings, examine them in the mirror, and engage with other shoppers by asking, "What do you think? Do you like these?" Simon Wilson goes on to say, "Some of them nearly fainted when they saw it was her", illustrating the surprise and delight her presence brought to unsuspecting customers.