Hello, I am very glad you shared this garment. I specialize in bead restoration in garments and purses. In my opinion the beads are real Jet. They are lighter than glass beads as in French jet. Also glass would be much more shiny and what I could tell in your video these beads are dull, yes faceted but dull. I also feel there is a chemical reaction to the threads and or the Jet itself that are up against the ribbon thus the decolorization. The bead pattern between the ribbons is a common bead weaving pattern. It can be done quickly and with ease once you know the count. I would love to chat with you live about this garment. This is a treasure and you were right to save it from destruction.
As difficult it was for women ( not that I think it's that much better socially) I think I would have been happy in that era. ( becuz I'm a fool for a pretty dress!)
Hello, I am very glad you shared this garment. I specialize in bead restoration in garments and purses. In my opinion the beads are real Jet. They are lighter than glass beads as in French jet. Also glass would be much more shiny and what I could tell in your video these beads are dull, yes faceted but dull. I also feel there is a chemical reaction to the threads and or the Jet itself that are up against the ribbon thus the decolorization. The bead pattern between the ribbons is a common bead weaving pattern. It can be done quickly and with ease once you know the count. I would love to chat with you live about this garment. This is a treasure and you were right to save it from destruction.
Oh my gosh, thank you for this information! Are you on Facebook or Instagram, where I can send you a private message?
Gorgeous!
The time involved in making this garment must have been staggering.
I know, right?
France 1890’s
Silk /wool knit / dyed linen thread/Blk tape
French jet glass beads
As difficult it was for women ( not that I think it's that much better socially) I think I would have been happy in that era. ( becuz I'm a fool for a pretty dress!)