Antique Georgian Necklace 18k Gold Chrysoprase Rubies c1810 English (7052)

Antique Georgian necklace. 18k gold, chrysoprase, rubies. Made in England, United Kingdom circa 1810.

Measurements: Weight is 71 grams. Approximately 16inches (41cm) long.

Description : Gently rounded and faceted chrysoprase in colette settings with crenelated and beaded borders and surrounded by a mount of scrolling gold. Typically Georgian closed backs with convex rich gold surfaces. Chrysoprase stations are gradated with the largest in the front center and the smallest at the clasp. Between each large chrysoprase station is a smaller unit in the form of a flower, arching, engraved gold petals with a trio of oval pink rubies and a gold granule in the center. Sections joined via gold links, allowing flexibility and movement. Beautiful workmanship. Stunning combination of colors - the rich gold offset by the large green gems and the intensely bright pink of the rubies. Tongue in groove clasp is hidden when necklace is closed. The back of the bottom, central station is supplied with a pair of tubular links, which can be used to add a drop pendant. A very similar necklace to this one is worn by the Comtesse Daru, painted by Jacques-Louis David, the artist who painted monumental portraits of Napoleon Bonaparte and his empire. The painting is in the Frick collection in New York. It is also shown on page 105 of The International Era, Vol I 1789-1910, by Shirley Bury. The necklace looks as fabulous today as it did well over 200 years ago.

Marks and Metal: gold acid tested to 18k or higher except the clasp which tested as 9ct.

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.