The Store P383 Pearl Necklace: Mother-of-Pearl Hair Comb Guide
A collector once brought me a hair comb that looked at first glance like a delicate pearl choker laid flat on a velvet cushion. The curved base was carved from luminous mother-of-pearl, and from it cascaded three graduated strands of tiny faux pearls, each ending in a small matching drop. The back was stamped with a tiny code: P383. This is the piece I want to talk about today—not a necklace, but a hair accessory designed to sit at the nape of the neck and create the illusion of a pearl choker resting against the hair. Known in vintage circles as the “pearl necklace” comb, this style was especially popular in the mid-20th century for evening wear and special occasions. The store code P383 identifies a specific British manufacturer’s pattern, and understanding its details can help you authenticate and appreciate these elegant survivors.
What the “Pearl Necklace” Comb Actually Is
Despite its name, the pearl necklace comb is not worn around the throat. It is a hair comb, usually between 8 and 12 centimetres wide, with a curved back that follows the contour of the head. The comb is inserted into the hair just at the nape, often anchoring an updo or simply adding ornament to loose hair. From the top edge of the comb, strands of beads hang down, mimicking the look of a multi-strand pearl necklace that appears to wrap around the base of the neck. The effect is especially striking when the hair is worn up in a French twist or low chignon—the beads seem to emerge from the hair itself.
Materials and Craftsmanship in the P383 Model
The P383 version is distinguished by its use of genuine mother-of-pearl for the comb base—a material that was prized for its iridescent shimmer and relative durability. Mother-of-pearl comes from the inner lining of certain mollusc shells, primarily abalone and pearl oysters. In the 1950s and 1960s, British accessory makers often cut and polished thin slices of this shell into the graceful arched shapes needed for combs. The beads on the P383 are not natural pearls but high-quality faux pearls, typically made from glass or resin with a pearlescent coating. The manufacturer matched the creamy glow of the beads to the natural tones of the mother-of-pearl, creating a cohesive, elegant look. The metal fittings—usually brass or silver-toned wires and clasps—are hidden behind the comb or inside the bead strands, so the overall impression is soft and organic.
Identifying a Genuine Store P383 Piece
Because the P383 code is relatively obscure, it is rarely faked. However, you may encounter similar combs from other makers. To confirm you have the correct model, examine the back of the comb. The stamp “P383” is typically engraved lightly, sometimes with a small crown or the words “Made in England” nearby. The mother-of-pearl should feel smooth and cool, and the bead strands should be evenly spaced. Check the wire loops that attach the beads—they should be tight and not rusty. The comb teeth (the part that goes into the hair) are usually made of metal, often brass covered with a thin gold wash. On the P383, the teeth are curved to match the comb’s arc. If the teeth are straight or made of plastic, you are likely looking at a later or different model.
Styling the Pearl Necklace Comb Today
This accessory pairs beautifully with modern minimalist outfits. Try it with a simple black sheath dress and low-heeled pumps for a dinner party, or wear it with a silk blouse and tailored trousers for a smart daytime look. The key is to let the comb be the statement. Avoid competing with large earrings or a bold necklace—the comb already provides the necklace effect. For hair, a sleek low bun or a side-swept chignon works best. If your hair is short, you can still use the comb as a decorative clip at the temple, though the full effect of the hanging strands may be less pronounced. The comb works equally well on natural hair or with extensions, provided the grip is firm enough to stay in place.
Caring for Mother-of-Pearl and Faux Pearls
Mother-of-pearl is surprisingly tough, but it can chip or crack if dropped. Always store the comb in a soft pouch or a lined jewellery box, separate from metal pieces that might scratch it. Avoid prolonged exposure to water, perfume, or hairspray—these can dull the shell’s lustre and loosen the bead attachments. To clean, gently wipe the mother-of-pearl with a slightly damp, soft cloth and dry immediately. For the faux pearl strands, use a barely moist cotton bud to clean between the beads, taking care not to wet the wire loops. Never use ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals. If a bead comes loose, it is best to remove the entire strand and restring it with matching thread and a jeweller’s knot—a task best left to a professional vintage accessory restorer.
Where Does the P383 Fit in the Store Series?
If you have been following the numbered store codes on this blog, you know that each code usually corresponds to a specific shape, material, or decorative motif. The satin padded headbands, for instance, follow a different numbering logic. The P383 sits in a category of combs that combine mother-of-pearl with hanging beadwork—a style that appears to have been produced in small batches, likely for independent boutiques. It is a companion piece to other shell-and-bead hair accessories, but the “pearl necklace” concept makes it especially distinctive. Keep an eye out for similar codes such as P384 or P385, which may use different bead colours or base shapes.
One Final Practical Note
If you purchase a P383 comb secondhand, always check the metal teeth for bending. The original teeth can be gently eased back into alignment with flat-nosed pliers wrapped in soft cloth, but if more than two teeth are out of shape, the comb may not hold securely in the hair. In that case, consider having a jeweller reinforce the back with a new metal spine. With proper care, this clever piece of British accessory design can continue to bring its elegant pearl illusion to the modern table for decades.