I have been collecting Betsey Johnson jewelry and bags for a while now. The company is going out of business after many years and Steve Madden is planning on liquidating almost everything while keeping just a few stores open. Because of this, pieces are highly coveted AND deeply discounted. I bought the Betsey Johnson "Lovely Leopard" Cross Necklace because I loved the way it looked. I got a great deal on it and I find it is super wearable. The cross isn't religious, in my opinion (although I am Christian). It's more ornamental since it is leopard print. This is a high quality pieces as all BJ products are.

About the Necklace

This necklace is a triple layered one with one thin bright gold tone and two oxidized gold tone chains. There is a lobster claw clasp and the chains are attached and can't be separated. In true Betsey Johnson style, there are two gold bows on either side of the chains. The first layer is short and holds a cute gold rimmed heart shaped crystal. A bit lower on the brighter gold chain is a carved rose charm with a topaz colored stone. The "petals" are hammered gold. The longest oxidized chain displays the signature Betsey Johnson leopard print cross that is seen on many of the brand's pieces. The cross is bronze and gold and not too big although it isn't demure. I would say the cross is just under an inch tall.

The first chain sits at about 18". The second is a couple of inches longer, and the last is about 22-23" at the end of the cross.

What I like about the Betsey Johnson "Lovely Leopard" Cross Necklace is that the chains are unique. They're thin but have tiny knots in them giving them a sort of twisted look. Very pretty! Each charm is classic Betsey Johnson and anyone who is a fan will immediately recognize the brand. I don't find that the three chains tangle when I am wearing them which is a big relief. I have other triple necklaces that get all twisted and end up looking messy. This one doesn't, thankfully.

While these chains and charms are only plated - not sterling or actual gold - they don't tarnish or turn colors. They look rich and pricey. The lobster claw clasp holds the trio of chains securely.

My Experience

I love jewelry and have so much that I don't even know what I have anymore. But I do know that the latest Betsey Johnson pieces I have are beautiful and unique. I am saddened that they will not be producing any more gorgeous polka dotted hearts and other signature jewelry - not to mention all the other accessories that will be gone.

This necklace is great with a simple top, solid or printed, although I wouldn't clash with the leopard print. I wear mine with solid colors.

While the charms are not tiny, the necklace gives off a dainty appearance by virtue of the chains, the bows, and the choice of charms. Nothing TOO edgy about a crystal heart, a rose, and a cross!

This necklace isn't goth or any such thing. It's a fashion one that can be worn by teens on up. It's all you need. A simple bangle and a pair of studs is enough. The necklace is a statement all its own.

I like the Betsey Johnson "Lovely Leopard" Cross Necklace because it's so versatile and wearable. Some of the brand's pieces require some of thought about how to style them. Not this necklace. Toss on a T shirt and the necklace you're good to go and you WILL get noticed.

I clean my jewelry with a soft cloth after each wearing and I hang it on a huge over the door jewelry hanger. I don't keep it in a box. I need to see what I have or I won't wear it. None of the brand's pieces ever changed colors or tarnished and this necklace is like new although I have worn it several times.
Buying Info

You can find the Betsey Johnson "Lovely Leopard" Cross Necklace online at some jewelry resellers, Amazon, and a variety of other websites. The price varies. I saw it for $26.00 up to $50.00. Don't pay more than $30.00. Not because the necklace isn't worth it but why pay higher prices than you have to?

The Verdict

While I love my Betsey Johnson "In the Navy" Lucite Drop Frontal Statement Necklace, it takes some thought about how to best style it so it doesn't overwhelm. With the "Lovely Leopard" Cross Necklace, there isn't any guesswork. It looks pretty, a bit edgy, and feminine all at the same time and can dress up the simplest of T's or tops. I like it a lot. 4 stars.

Recommended: Yes