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This is such an
Exquisite Antique Bohemian Garnet Festoon Necklace. No amount of pictures can
truly display the magnificent sparkling deep red of these genuine stones – in
person they are just amazing!
Garnet jewellery was at its height of popularity during the 19th
century; and it was during the Victorian era that Bohemian garnet jewelry
developed its characteristic design of the garnets entirely dominating the
metal setting. This type of jewellery utilised rich claret-hued stones (pyrope
garnets) that had been mined in the Bohemian region of Eastern
Europe. Highly prized for both colour and light
refraction, these close-set faceted garnets take on a striking luminosity and
intense color when placed in clusters. It is said that the fire from a single
Bohemian garnet can warm the coldest heart.
During the Victorian era, Western cultures believed that garnets
would enrich the blood and provide the wearer with a long, healthy life.
Victorians believed it empowered them with truth, constancy and faith. Garnets
are also the birthstone for January and this bracelet would sure make a wonderful
gift.
I have the “Garnet Jewellery Bug” and when you see these garnets
in person, you’ll understand why. I’ll describe the necklace however no words
or pictures can accurately present the beauty of these gorgeous old pieces; they
are best viewed in person.
It is a HAND MADE necklace comprised of two different shaped
garnets – Rose and a flatter cut type. The front features 5 rosettes of 2
different sizes in a snowflake arrangement – 3 are layered. Seven “dangles”
hanging in diamond shapes and the remainder of the chain is fashioned from diamond
shaped arrangements of four stones with the amazing Original rosette box and
tongue clasp in perfect working order.
Please view the pictures for the best description of the design
bearing in mind they do not do it any justice.
It is set in what is termed Garnet Gold, an alloy metal with a gilt
finish which, when highly polished can take on a golden appearance. Left
unpolished – and as displayed in the pictures – it has an aged, silver/gold
toned patina. It has been thoroughly cleaned however it had not been polished.
It is a personal preference.
HISTORY &
MARKS
There are no identifying markings but the design, clasp and construction
assist in dating this to the late 1800s.
MEASURES
Suitable: for most adults – the addition of some
extra links would be simple to do, if required
Length: 40.2cm
excluding clasp
Rosettes: largest is 1.5cm
or 0.6” in diameter – the drop at the centre is 3.3cm form top to bottom
Weight: 20.5 grams
OVERALL
Near MINT ORIGINAL Antique
condition! All the stones appear to be original with no replacements or repairs
and firmly in place with no chips or cracks visible. There is no damage or
misshaping. I
have pictured it in different light to show the garnets’ gorgeous red wine
colour. You will be Absolutely thrilled – I guarantee it! A Wonderful Old
necklace in Original condition not to be missed! A very Old Period piece to be
treasured.
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