8. What is the symbolism of the necklace?

In Maupassant's "The Necklace," the necklace itself represents the surface-level nature of social class. The necklace is made of fake jewels, but Mme. Loisel perceives it as beautiful because she believes it to be real. Similarly, Mme. Loisel is perceived as beautiful at the party because of the confidence and status that dressing like an upper-class person gives her.