Intelligence Squared

The Specialist | Jackie O's Faux Pearls, with Frank Everett

February 21, 2026

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  • The string of faux pearls belonging to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis sold for \$211,000, vastly exceeding its \$500-\$700 estimate, demonstrating the immense power of provenance in the jewelry world. 
  • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis is remembered not just as a style icon, but as a dedicated role model and a 'working First Lady' whose personal presentation was carefully considered and highly influential. 
  • The high value assigned to the faux pearls was driven entirely by provenance, as the necklace itself was made of costume materials (silver and paste clasp, mimicking cultured Koya pearls) and was likely made by Kenneth J. Lane. 

Segments

Introduction to The Specialist (Unknown)
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  • Key Takeaway: None
  • Summary: None
Focus on Jackie O’s Pearls (Unknown)
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Details of the Faux Pearls
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(00:04:22)
  • Key Takeaway: The versatile, triple-strand necklace featured 10mm simulated pearls and an Art Deco style clasp made of silver and paste.
  • Summary: The pearls mimic cultured Koya pearls, are beautifully matched, and are versatile enough for casual wear or state dinners. The clasp is Art Deco style, constructed from silver and paste rather than diamonds and platinum. The maker is unknown, though much of her costume jewelry was created by Kenneth J. Lane.
Iconic Imagery of Jackie O
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(00:05:32)
  • Key Takeaway: Three iconic images capture Jackie Kennedy wearing the pearls as a mother, hostess, and fashion figure.
  • Summary: One famous image shows her laughing with JFK Jr. in 1962 while he plays with the strands, representing Jackie as a mother. Another depicts her wearing the pearls with an Oleg Cassini strapless gown while lighting candles at a state dinner, showcasing her role as hostess. A third iconic fashion image features her in a pale yellow satin dress with the pearls, often looking warmly engaged with the viewer.
The 1996 Estate Sale Impact (Unknown)
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Provenance and Legacy
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(00:08:20)
  • Key Takeaway: The buyer of the pearls was the Franklin Mint, which reproduced the necklace before it was ultimately displayed at the Smithsonian Museum.
  • Summary: The buyer was the Franklin Mint, which subsequently reproduced the necklace many times over, leading to its final placement in the Smithsonian Museum in Washington. Provenance endures for a handful of people, with Jacqueline Kennedy being at the top of that list alongside figures like the Duchess of Windsor and Mrs. Paul Mellon. Her enduring status stems from her thoughtful personal presentation and being ahead of her time in style.