Antique Victorian Necklace Collier Neglige 18k Gold Diamonds Pearls French (6403)

Antique late Victorian necklace. 18k yellow gold, silver, diamonds and pearls. Made in France circa 1880's - 1900.

Measurements: A tad under 18inches (46cm) long. Drop is approximately 2 1/4 inches (5.5cm) long. Weighs 7.7 grams.

Description : Right on the cusp of late Victorian bordering on the very fine workmanship and sensibility of the Edwardian era, this is a beautifully designed and executed neglige necklace that sits just a little below the collar bone. Oval, gold border with modelled tiny flowers encloses a filigree border with small rose cut diamonds in a line. On either end of the oval is a drop of differing length, but identical construction, each with tapering sections ending in flowers and oval terminals to match the gold oval above. Within are little diamond flowers and pearl drops. Original late 19th century chain of fine rectangular links completes the necklace. Very subtle - the differing lengths cause the observer's eye to move up and down and the horizontal oval moves our eyes in the opposite direction, resulting in a sense of movement, enhanced by the contrast between yellow gold, silver and diamonds.

Marks: Ends of the chain, near the clasp are both hallmarked with a number of French hallmarks, including the French eagle head, indicating 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.