Revivalist antique Victorian pendant. 18k yellow gold, opals, sapphires and enamel. Made in United Kingdom by Carlo and Arthur Giuliano circa 1895 - 1900.
Measurements: Weight is 13.7 grams. Total length is approximately 3 inches (7.5cm). Largest opal measures 19X13mm.
Description : A large pendant in exotic rich tones by Carlo & Arthur Giuliano, sons of Carlo Giuliano, who took over the firm in 1895. Central body of the pendant with botanical theme featuring openwork guilloche enamel foliage or petals in bright red on gold forming a wreath-like frame around a large oval central opal. Top and bottom of opal surrounded by 6 deep blue beautiful colored cabochon, small sugar-loaf sapphires in colette settings. A smaller, matching sapphire is suspended from the flower and it in turn suspends a tear-drop opal, matched above the flower by another identically shaped opal. A pair of gold chains suspends the central body of the pendant. All parts can move and swing independently of the other parts. A large bale allows a really big chain or ribbon to thread through and suspend the pendant. Central opal is whitish with a lot of sparkling light and glowing yellows and greens with gentle tones of orange in the background. The top and bottom teardrops with wonderful play of colors. See condition of opals below. Pendant can be worn close to the throat, high or low on the chest or hanging from a long chain. It is fabulous whichever way it is worn.
Marks and Metal: Signed C&AG for Carlo & Arthur Giuliano. Acid testing ensured 18k gold purity.
Condition: Loss to the enamel as is shown in the pictures. Opals with typical crazing to the central opal and an internal crack/flaw in the upper opal that does not impinge on the great play of color in that stone. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer. The identical pendant with green enamel is shown on page 115 of John Benjamin's book, Starting to Collect Antique Jewellery.
