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Desert Sun Collar Necklace
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ProductScore
Materials: Gold-plated brass with amber, citrine-toned stones, and glass accents
View on Lizzie Fortunato →The Verdict
The Desert Sun Collar Necklace brings architectural structure to Lizzie Fortunato's typically organic aesthetic. The rigid collar format with warm-toned stones creates a bold geometric statement that channels gallery-worthy design. Beautiful craftsmanship, though the gold-plated brass at $675 is a significant ask.
Score Breakdown
What Customers Say
Based on 743 mentions across social media and review platforms
Fashion editors and stylists frequently feature the Desert Sun in editorial content. Users appreciate the structured collar format as a departure from the brand's more organic designs. The warm color palette makes it a popular fall-season choice. Price-to-material concerns echo across reviews.
"This collar necklace is absolutely stunning. The warm amber tones against the gold metal create this sunset effect that I've never seen in any other piece. It looks like sculpture you can wear."
Reddit r/femalefashionadvice
"The structure of this piece sets it apart from typical statement necklaces. It sits beautifully on the collarbone and the metalwork framing the stones is really well done. Worth the investment for how it makes me feel."
Trustpilot
"Gorgeous but overpriced for the materials. $675 for gold-plated brass is hard to justify when you can get 14K gold pieces for similar money. The design is unique but I struggle with the value proposition."
Reddit r/jewelry
"Impressive statement necklace with strong design sensibility. The collar format is comfortable and sits well. Feels well-made for fashion jewelry. Good option for special occasions."
Google Reviews
"I wore this to a gallery opening and three people asked me if it was custom art jewelry. That's the kind of reaction Lizzie Fortunato delivers. Not cheap, but nothing else looks like this."
Instagram comment
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- + Architectural collar design is genuinely unique in the market
- + Warm amber and citrine palette is rich and versatile
- + Structured format sits elegantly on the collarbone
- + Artisan metalwork framing demonstrates skilled craftsmanship
- + Bold enough to anchor an entire outfit
Trade-offs
- − Gold-plated brass at $675 raises material-to-price concerns
- − Rigid collar format limits layering options
- − Warm tones may not suit all skin tones equally
- − Requires careful storage to prevent metal distortion
Specifications
| Base Metal | Gold-plated brass |
| Stones | Amber, citrine-toned glass, semi-precious accents |
| Collar Width | 1.5 inches at center |
| Inner Circumference | 15 inches |
| Closure | Hook and eye with adjustable chain |
| Weight | Approximately 120 grams |
| Construction | Hand-fabricated metalwork with hand-set stones |
| Country of Origin | Handcrafted in New York |
Alternatives to Consider
Tide Pool Necklace by Lizzie Fortunato
Same brand's oceanic palette in a more organic, cascading format
Gate Locket Necklace by Monica Rich Kosann
Fine jewelry statement necklace with 18K gold construction and personal meaning
Karma Small Medallion by Foundrae
18K gold statement pendant with symbolic depth and precious metal value
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the collar adjustable for different neck sizes?
Will the rigid collar format be uncomfortable?
How does the warm color palette work with different outfits?
Full Review
Architectural Statement
The Desert Sun Collar Necklace represents a different facet of Lizzie Fortunato’s design vocabulary — structured, geometric, and deliberately architectural where many of the brand’s pieces lean organic and fluid. The rigid collar format sits on the collarbone like a piece of wearable sculpture, framing the décolletage with warm-toned stones set in hand-fabricated gold-plated metalwork. The amber and citrine-toned stones create a sunset gradient that feels simultaneously ancient and thoroughly modern.
Craftsmanship and Construction
The metalwork on the Desert Sun is notably refined. The gold-plated brass framework is hand-fabricated with clean lines and smooth edges, creating individual cells that hold each stone securely. The hand-setting work is precise, and the overall construction demonstrates the kind of attention that justifies calling this artisan jewelry rather than fashion accessories. The hook and eye closure is functional without detracting from the design, and the adjustable chain allows for subtle fit customization.
Styling and Versatility
Despite its bold presence, the Desert Sun is more versatile than it initially appears. The warm color palette grounds it firmly in the earth-tone spectrum, making it a natural companion for black, navy, olive, and cream outfits. It excels in professional settings where a signature accessory conveys creative confidence, and in evening contexts where its architectural presence commands attention without overwhelming.
The Price Question
At $675, the Desert Sun sits at the upper end of Lizzie Fortunato’s range and squarely in the territory where buyers begin asking about base metals. The gold-plated brass is well-executed but is not precious metal, and competitive alternatives in 14K gold exist at similar price points. The premium here is for design exclusivity, artisanal construction, and a visual identity that has no equivalent in conventional fine jewelry.
