Truly Beautiful Antique Diamond Necklet / Pendant. Gold With Silver Settings. Circa 1850/60.
Impressive size at almost 5cm, makes a statement on the neck.
A lovely collectable piece of antique jewellery. This truly beautiful pendant has a total of 40 diamonds varying in size. The diamonds are a mixture of old mine cuts and rose cuts. The diamonds are set in silver with a gold back which was the traditional practice at this period, it pre-dates white gold and platinum settings.
This rare and beautiful pendant has a large old mine cut diamond in the centre with 37 rose cut diamonds arranged in the forms of a flower with buds and leaves, there is also a old mine cut diamond at the bottom and there is another diamond attached to the top of the pendant, both are articulated. There is a rose gold spiral and heart motif attached to the top of the pendant and has the rose gold chain attached.
These works of art need to be studied, and you need to know the manufacturing process to fully appreciate their character. Its a rarity to have survived in this condition.
From around 1830 it became popular in Victorian jewellery to “say it with flowers” as a way to express love and friendship.
Large centre old mine cut diamond measures approx. 4.7mm x 4.5mm, its a deep stone, and estimated weigh of approx. 0.45 carats. Other mine cut diamonds vary in size, largest measure approx. 3.4mm in diameter and smallest measure approx.3.0mm in diameter. Rose cute also vary in size, largest measures approx. 2.5mm in diameter and the smallest measures approx. 1.0mm in diameter.
Chain measures 18 inches in length. Equivalent to 45.7cm.
Overall measurements approx. 49.8mm in length and 19.6mm in width.
Combined weight 9.4g
Typically never hallmarked, the front tests silver and the back tests gold. Chain is engraved 9ct. Dates from the mid Victorian period.
The photos really don't do it justice.
CONDITION: Very good Settings and goldwork are good, we have just gently cleaned by hand to retain patina. Original gilding and `bloom` intact. This is a antique item. It is in very good condition making it excellent value for money when compared to a new equivalent.
