sautoir

American  

[soh-twahr, saw-, soh-twar] / soʊˈtwɑr, sɔ-, soʊˈtwar /

noun

plural

sautoirs

1. a ribbon, chain, scarf, or the like, tied around the neck in such a manner that the ends cross over each other.

2. a chain to which a pendant is attached, worn around the neck.

---

Etymology

Origin of sautoir

From French, dating back to 1935–40; see origin at saltire

Example Sentences

A dangling tassel is the focus of this new jewel-encrusted convertible sautoir, which can be worn nine ways, including as a brooch, pendant or choker, and features a 10-carat antique cushion-cut ruby from Mozambique.

From New York Times • Oct. 13, 2021

The flapper’s boyish silhouette became the ideal, leading to the popularity of the sautoir, a long necklace often ending in a tassel, strung with tiny pearls or gemstones, that nestled against the breastbone.

From New York Times • Oct. 13, 2021

The exhibition “Bvlgari, the story, the dream” includes the diamond-and-sapphire sautoir necklace that Hollywood star Richard Burton gave Elizabeth Taylor during their stormy love affair.

From Washington Times • Jun. 25, 2019

For her 40th birthday in 1972, Elizabeth Taylor received a Bulgari sautoir from her husband, Richard Burton, who tended to express his passion in carats.

From New York Times • Aug. 17, 2017

Strong lines, vibrant color and quirky details such as a modernist sautoir necklace worn against a beautifully minimal, high neck, ivory silk seamed knit dress, were highlights.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2015