Antique Georgian Victorian Earrings Necklace Set 14k Gold Carnelian Italy (7143)

Antique Georgian or Victorian Parure set consisting of earrings and sautoir long necklace. 14k gold and carnelians. Made in Italy. French Empire style, but possibly later, so we cannot be certain whether it is Empire/Georgian (circa 1800 - 1810) or later, Victorian. Please see note on date and style below.

Measurements: Weight is grams. Length of necklace 21 inches (54cm) with additional 5 1/2 inch (14cm) drop. Earrings are approximately 2 3/4 inches (7cm) long, not including the wires.

Description : Long drop earrings with gold oval mounts enclosing cabochon carnelians. Concentric rings and bands of gold with raised, beaded ridges. The larger lower section is connected to the upper section via a trio of small chains. This allows the various parts to move, swing and sway. The gold wires are also connected via loops to the surmounts. The matching necklace consists of the same concentric rings and borders of gold enclosing oval cabochon carnelians, identical in style to the earrings. Gradated size with the largest in the center and getting smaller towards the back. Long pendant drop with an oval and a diamond-shaped station at the very bottom. The largest two drops have engraved patterns on the gold surrounding the carnelians. Carnelians of a lovely warm honey-brown color with natural striations in some of them. The stations are connected via swags of gold chains of differing patterns and forms - circles of different sizes and tiny chains of different designs. There is a pair of lozenge-shaped links, which might be replacements. Tongue-in-groove clasp is secure. The set is very much in the French Empire style - made during the first decade of the 19th century, during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. We can see many pictures of his wife, Josephine wearing jewelry just like this. However, this set is Italian with no hallmarks and therefore, it is not possible to be sure of the exact date. We can therefore not be sure whether the set is Georgian or Victorian. During the 19th century, different jewelry was worn by day or by night. Diamonds were only allowed at night according to strict rules of dress, but a beautiful set like this could adorn the most elegant noblewoman. Carnelians were especially favored by Josephine and the French court in the time of Napoleon Bonaparte. Earring wires are possibly replacements (as is the case with most antique earrings). Extremely elegant and sure to make an impressive statement.

Marks and Metal: no marks. Gold was acid tested.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.