Antique, late Victorian pendant. 18k yellow Gold, Rose Cut Diamonds, Sapphire and Enamel. Made by Carlo and Arthur Giuliano (sons of Carlo Giuliano), circa 1890's, London, England.
Measurements:
Approximately 1 1/2 inches (a little under 4cm) long, including the bale. Weight is 4.1 grams. Diamonds 0.39ct.
Description :
Small, delightful pendant, beautifully made by the Giuliano family, known in London for the great quality of their workmanship and design. We included the length of the bale in our measurements because it is an intrinsic part of the pendant and very beautifully done. While the back of the bale is a corrugated gold loop, in the front, it parts into two halves of a flattened oval, the top enamelled in a white ground with blue dots. This kind of enamel work is a trademark characteristic of antique Giuliano jewelry. Following a series of small gold loops, a tiny diamond forms the surmount, connected by further loops to the main body of the pendant. The pendant is a rounded square in shape. The outside is a ribbon-like border, enamelled in white and blue to match that of the bale. These colors 'pop' despite their relatively small area. The center of the pendant is a rose cut diamond, held aloft by gold claws that barely touch its base, giving the appearance of a diamond floating above a golden flower. The prongs that hold the diamond alternate with curved bars of gold, on which the diamond rests. Lovely use of negative space between the gold sections and between them and the outer enamelled border. Finally, tiny gold links suspend a collette-set cabochon sapphire. The tiny links between sections allow the various parts independent movement. There is a lot to draw and attract the eye in this wonderful little work of art - a true gem.
Marks:
C&AG monogram mark on the back (for Carlo and Arthur Giuliano, used after the death of their father, Carlo 1890's. ) Gold was acid tested to ensure metal purity.
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. Comes in a custom fitted box as bought by a previous owner in London. Independent appraisal available to new owner.
An illustration on page 77 of the book Artists' Jewellery by Charlotte Gere and Geoffrey C Munn, shows Queen Victoria's daughter, Princess Louise wearing a pendant by Giuliano that looks like this one. Unfortunately, the 'photo is in black and white, so we cannot see precise details and color.
