Court necklaces were often shown on Chinese ancestor portraits. Color and composition of the necklaces were regulated by rank of person bestowed by Emperor, such as 'official of 6th degree'. Other regulated articles of dress were the color and composition of a large bead used as a hat finial, and the animal or bird depicted on an embroidered silk badge worn on the chest.

Here are links to a variety of ancestor portraits, most painted between roughly 1880 and 1930, in earlier style.

The ancestor portraits usually upgraded an ancestor's rank considerably, often showing the accessories even if the ancestor never had any such rank.

Unfortunately many of those who submitted the photos were graphically challenged. But it is possible to see how these necklaces were worn, the sizes of the beads and the configuration of the shorter 'counter' strands (derived from Tibetan prayer beads, sometimes used as abacuses).

An internet search using term 'ancestor portrait' might turn up more examples.

Snap

rev-mirror http://asianart.com/phpforum/index.php?method=detailAll&Id=18058

rev-mirror2 http://asianart.com/phpforum/index.php?method=detailAll&Id=1604

port 3a http://asianart.com/phpforum/index.php?method=detailAll&Id=1111

port 3b http://asianart.com/phpforum/index.php?method=detailAll&Id=1106

port 4 http://asianart.com/phpforum/index.php?method=detailAll&Id=1108