It’s no surprise that the lariat necklace draws inspiration from cowboy culture, both in name and design. The lariat itself is a type of lasso—a long rope with a large loop at the end used by cowboys—which mirrors the shape of a lariat necklace. The term “lariat” originates from the Spanish la reata, meaning “tie again.” But how did we move from lassos and ranch gear to the elegant modern lariat necklace?
The fine jewelry version of the lariat gained popularity in the 1920s, during the opulent Roaring Twenties. Art Deco design, with its love for bold patterns and geometric lines, inspired extravagant Y-shaped necklaces crafted from platinum, diamonds, gemstones, and pearls. Another trend from the era was wrapping long strands of pearls around the neck, letting the ends drape elegantly or knotting them loosely to create an extended Y-shape.
The lariat saw a resurgence in the 1970s with bohemian fashion. These designs took a step back toward their Western roots, often featuring leather or suede paired with colorful beads, feathers, or pendants inspired by nature. This style complemented the flowing silhouettes, bold prints, and free-spirited vibe of boho fashion.
Fast forward to 2023, and the lariat necklace is trending once more. Modern interpretations are often sleek and minimalistic. While some designs retain earthy materials, raw gemstones, and organic shapes, others incorporate diamonds, gemstones, or pearls for a polished, sophisticated look. Western-inspired aesthetics remain a key influence.
I like to think of my own designs as the “urban lariat.” My first versions were crafted entirely from woven seed beads with a large lampworked bead at the end. As I began learning silversmithing, I started incorporating silver into my designs, initially with tiny Bali beads strung alongside glass. As my skills grew, I created handmade silver beads and components to pair with my glasswork. For over 30 years, lariats were my best-selling necklaces, blending the artistry of my craft with the timeless appeal of this versatile style.