This sweater guard is much longer than the ones I usually see and instead of clips has ends that would slip over buttons. (I'm guessing it is a sweater guard, for lack of coming up with any better idea.) The pearl section is permanently curved (i.e. it is not flexible) and is 4-1/2" long, and overall the whole piece is 18" long. There is some minor wear to the pearls, but which from even a foot away cannot be seen. Interesting item, and if someone knows a use other than a sweater guard I would appreciate hearing from you!