The Quiet Signature of a ‘Store p163’ Faux Pearl Barrette
The faintly incised code store p163 on the back of a small, cream-coloured barrette might seem like a mundane stamp, but for collectors of British vintage hair accessories it is a quiet signature—a clue to a specific era of costume jewellery production. Faux pearl barrettes of this type were produced in the mid-20th century, often by manufacturers supplying high-street department stores. The faux pearl, never perfectly uniform, carries a soft lustre that catches the light differently than modern synthetics. Holding one, you notice the weight: not too light, not too heavy, with a metal clip that still snaps with a satisfying click after decades.
Decoding the 'Store p163' Mark
The 'store' prefix followed by a number is a hallmark seen on many British hair accessories from the 1940s to the 1960s. It is widely believed to be an inventory code used by manufacturers or retailers, possibly referring to a specific line or batch. The 'p' likely stands for 'pearl' or 'paste'—a common shorthand for costume jewellery pearls. The number '163' may indicate a design number, a price point, or a production run. Collectors often use these codes to date items: a 'p163' barrette probably dates from the late 1950s or early 1960s, when faux pearls were particularly fashionable for everyday elegance. Unlike the more romantic 'beret love' clips, this barrette is straightforward in its naming—no hearts, no hidden messages—just a practical code that now helps us identify and appreciate its origins.
Materials: The Art of the Faux Pearl
Faux pearls in vintage British accessories were typically made from glass or plastic, coated with a pearlescent fish-scale or synthetic solution. The 'p163' barrette often uses glass beads set in a metal base, hand-strung or glued in a tidy row. The backing is usually a thin brass or nickel-silver clip, sometimes plated in gold or silver. The pearls themselves vary in size from 4mm to 8mm, arranged in a single line or small cluster. The charm of these pieces lies in the slight irregularities: the tiny bubbles in the glass, the subtle variation in colour from cream to pale pink. These are not machine-perfect, and that is precisely what makes them collectible.
How to Identify a Genuine Vintage Faux Pearl
- Weight: Glass pearls feel heavier than modern plastic; a lightweight barrette likely is a later reproduction.
- Surface texture: Gently rub a pearl against your front tooth (a jeweller's trick). A real vintage faux pearl will feel slightly gritty, while modern plastic feels smooth.
- Base metal: Look for tarnish or verdigris on the clip—this indicates age and authenticity.
- Clasp mechanism: Vintage barrettes often use a spring-loaded hinge with a small hook; later versions have a simpler pinch clip.
Silhouettes and Styling: Then and Now
In the 1950s, faux pearl barrettes were worn with sleek, sculpted hair—Victory rolls, French twists, or simple half-up styles. The 'p163' barrette, with its modest size, was perfect for securing a side sweep or anchoring a small bun. Today, the same piece can elevate a modern outfit in a more subtle way. Wear it with a crisp white shirt and tailored trousers for a nod to period style without looking costumed. Or clip it into a low ponytail or messy bun to add a touch of vintage polish. The key is to let the barrette be the focal point—avoid competing with other shiny accessories.
Pairing with Contemporary Wardrobes
Because faux pearls have a neutral, creamy tone, they work with almost any colour palette. A single barrette can be worn alone, or two can be arranged symmetrically for a more structured look. For those who love mixing eras, consider pairing this barrette with a modern denim jacket or a minimalist black dress. The contrast between the soft lustre of the pearls and the harshness of contemporary fabrics creates a thoughtful tension. If you are exploring other vintage symbols, you might also appreciate the reinterpretation of a classic motif in The Black Snake Hair Barrette: A Vintage Symbol Reimagined, which offers a darker, bolder counterpart to the pearl's gentle femininity.
Care and Preservation of Faux Pearl Barrettes
Faux pearls are delicate. The coating can peel or crack if exposed to water, perfume, or hairspray. To keep a 'p163' barrette in good condition, follow these simple steps:
- Clean gently: Wipe the pearls with a soft, dry cloth after each wear. If needed, use a slightly damp cotton bud to remove dust from between the beads, but avoid saturating the metal.
- Store properly: Keep the barrette in a fabric-lined box or a soft pouch. Do not toss it in a drawer with other metal accessories—they can scratch the pearl coating.
- Keep away from chemicals: Apply hairspray, perfume, or dry shampoo before putting the barrette in your hair. Let the product dry completely before adding the accessory.
- Check the clasp: If the clip becomes loose, a jeweller can often tighten the spring. Do not attempt to bend it yourself—the metal can snap.
Where to Find a 'Store p163' Faux Pearl Barrette
These barrettes appear in charity shops, estate sales, and online vintage marketplaces. Because they are small and often overlooked, they can be surprisingly affordable—typically £5–£15. Look for listings that mention the code on the back, or search for 'vintage faux pearl barrette store p163'. Condition is important: check for missing pearls, cracks, or severe tarnish on the clip. Minor wear is acceptable, but a barrette with three out of five pearls intact is not a good buy. Also, be aware that some modern reproductions mimic the 'store' code; genuine vintage pieces will have a slightly irregular font and a patina on the metal.
A Final Practical Note: The Snap Test
Before buying a 'p163' barrette, always test the clasp. Gently open and close the clip a few times. A good vintage barrette will close with a firm, clean snap. If it feels spongy or fails to grip, the spring may be worn out. While a jeweller can replace the spring, the cost may outweigh the value of the piece. Trust your fingers—they will tell you more than a photograph ever can. This tactile attention to detail is what separates a casual collector from a true enthusiast, and it is exactly the kind of knowledge that keeps the spirit of vintage accessories alive.