Antique Victorian Napoleon III pendant necklace. 18k gold and garnets. Made in France late 19th century.
Measurements: Weight is 8.9 grams. Length is 17 inches (42.5cm).
Description : A yellow gold chain interrupted by 3 garnet stations. The central station is composed of a line of 5 round, rose cut garnets that continue the linear flow of the chain. Loops connect knife-edge gold supports that converge an inch and a half below, forming a gold and garnet triangle. Suspended from the bottom point of the triangle is a larger garnet.
The two stations on either side of the chain have similar linear upper sections, comprised of 3 garnets each. These are linked via chains and knife-edge gold bars to suspended garnets, slightly smaller than that in the bottom section.
As is typical of Perpignan garnets, they are foiled to add tone and strength of color. In addition, they are all close-backed.
The design of this necklace is unusual for French jewelry. It echoes the influence of the Arts & Crafts Movement over the Channel (in the United Kingdom). However, the delicacy of the workmanship and the color of the garnets is very typically French.
Marks and Metal: 3 hallmarks on the closure loop are French, but too small to see clearly.
Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. One or two negligible dings on the gold closed backs, not visible when the necklace is worn and considered appropriate for age and wear. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY: The French are very familiar and proud of their Perpignan garnets. These garnet come from a region in the south of France, near Spain and I've learned that they are all mine out. For this reason, they are more in demand than ever. Perpignan garnets are invariably set with close backs. Prices have shot up over the last few years.
