Antique Georgian necklace. 18k yellow gold and enamel. Made in France, 1798 - 1809.
Measurements:
Weight is 15.5 grams. Length approximately 15inches (just under) (37cm); Drop approximately 3 inches (7cm).
Description :
Over 300 years old, this gorgeous necklace consists of 5 plaques, joined by multiple rows of swags of different types of gold chains. The plaques are oval in shape. The broad, gold borders rise up at 45degree angles, much like a deep saucer or bowl. The flat, central part is exquisitely engraved in the very fine bright cut, hand engraving that is almost exclusively from the Georgian period. Engraving has inner borders of raised gold. The centers of the plaques are enamelled with delicate flowers of a deep, royal blue. The 3 central flowers have yellow enamel centers, the outer two flowers have plain gold centers.
The gold swags are made of 4 different types of gold chains, typical of these necklaces. They are very finely made and the contrast between them adds further interest to the necklace. Delicate tongue-in-groove clasp.
Swag necklaces like this were very worn in France during the 18th and 19th century. The multiple chains gave them the name 'slavery'. In fact, they were originally worn by the aristocratic classes with the bourgeoisie following the fashion. The high cost of gold explains the delicacy of the gold work, made to look more ostentatious and impressive, by the swags. The wealth of the wearer was indicated by the number of swags - this example was clearly owned by a very well-off woman and we can only dream of who she and her descendants were. See further examples from France in the 'photos.
It's astonishing that this necklace has not only survived over 300 years in such wonderful condition, but it is as gorgeously wearable today as it was at the time of the French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte.
Marks and Metal:
Coq (chicken) mark on the clasp is the French regional mark for 1798-1809 for 18k gold.
Condition:
Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
