VICTORIAN 1880 Convertible Necklace In 18Kt Gold Graduated Amethysts & Diamonds
Victorian 19th century necklace with graduated Amethysts.
A magnificent and exceptional necklace created in the United Kingdom during the late High Victorian era, circa 1870–1880. This delicate and finely articulated piece is meticulously handcrafted in solid 18-karat yellow gold, with millegrain accents applied to the gemstone settings, reflecting the refined workmanship characteristic of the period. The necklace is composed of multiple graduated octagonal links, each carefully designed to create a harmonious and elegant progression. The piece is embellished with forty-three graduated natural Siberian amethysts, displaying an intense purple hue, and further accented by twenty-one European-cut colorless diamonds of varying sizes.
The thoughtful arrangement of gemstones creates a sophisticated interplay of color and brilliance. Designed with both beauty and functionality in mind, the necklace is fitted with a concealed box clasp and an additional figure-eight safety for secure wear. The detachable drop element allows for versatility, enabling the piece to be worn in a more understated configuration. The articulated hanging elements are fully flexible, allowing the necklace to conform gracefully to the contours of the neck. Preserved with all its original period components, this necklace represents a superb example of late Victorian jewelry design and craftsmanship. An important and highly desirable collector’s piece.
Country: England.
Period: Victorian, 1870-1880.
Style: High Victorian.
Amethysts: Mounted in millegrain finish bezel settings, with 21 graduated squared octagonal steps cuts of natural intense purple amethysts, with a combined weight of about 36.56 carats.
Amethysts: Mounted in millegrain finish bezel settings, with 22 calibrated round faceted cuts of natural intense purple amethysts, with a combined weight of about 18.70 carats.
Amethysts: Mounted in millegrain finish bezel settings, with 1 pear faceted cuts and 1 emerald step cut of natural intense purple amethysts, with a combined weight of about 10.35 carats.
Diamonds: Mounted in millegrain finish bezel settings, 21 European round diamonds, with a combined weight of about 1.05 carats, white colorless F/G color, VS/SI clarity.
Weight: 28.95 Grams (18.60 Dwt).
Measurements: Length of 17 Inches (43 Cm) and convertible drop in the center is 33 mm (1.31Inches).
Hallmarks: No marks, tested for 18 karats gold
The Victorian
This era is one of the most influenced and influential periods of antique jewelry. This period is defined by the British monarch, in this case, Alexandrina Victoria, the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, as well as the Empress of India, years 1837-1901. There are 3 sub-periods within this era. First, the early, Romantic period, which is soaked in traditions, natural motifs in gold and silver, clear stones only being worn during the day and colored gems by night. The second being the Grand or mourning period, which coincides with the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert the consort, who died in December of 1861. This period included large, dark, somber, dramatic jewelry, with a lot of black onyx, jet wood, amethyst, garnet and gold. This lasted until 1880's, when the aesthetic period of jewelry began. The Late or third stage of the Victorian period, use more complex and feminine motifs, returning to the natural, including many floral and celestial designs, with more decadent gemstones, lasting until the turn of the century. The Victorian era of jewelry includes many movements found in other countries, including revivals such as the Etruscan the Roman and the Egyptian as well as the Art Nouveau, Liberty style and Arts and Crafts design movements which lead into the beginning of the twentieth century.
Collateral: This Victorian necklace with amethysts is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this Victorian necklace is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage to the gold. The 66 gemstones are secured in the settings. This necklace was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition & authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: N041726MMAEN/.6959
