Description
This is a fabulous historical treasure and such an incredibly scarce thing. Dating from the c1900 era and crafted throughout in 18ct gold (that is a rarity as most antique Liberty necklaces are crafted in 15ct or 9ct), this is a Museum quality piece of design-still housed in her original Liberty & Co fitted calf-skin leather box. A dream to have such a rare, high quality necklace and still in its original box. The condition is superb and the necklace is stamped in a multitude of places with the “18CT” stamp. If you have ever marvelled at how amazing it is sublime jewellery is actually made of metal, as it appears so heavenly, then this piece is truly the most absorbing piece to gaze upon.
The festoon design was so in vogue in the c1900 era and this wonderful design displays a series of graduating gold chains, which hang fabulously well, in between the amethyst drops. There are a mixture of round and oval faceted amethysts and their colour is that rich “Cadbury” deep purple tone, thus I believe they are most likely Siberian amethysts. There are sixteen graduated stones in the whole piece. There are five graduated openwork panels, that are exquisite in their fine detail; curled, sinuous strands of gold punctuated by those tiny stylised leaves-all very Liberty.
I adore how the amethyst drops attached to the main chain are all suspended on solid gold stalks- it just looks so beautiful. A fine 18ct gold fetter chain completes the necklace. The central drop is approx 3.4cm in height and the wearable length of the necklace is approx 39.5cm (15.5 inches). In my opinion, she is best left in her case on display in your collection. She could come out for an outing or two but worn ever so carefully so that she stays in the same remarkable condition for another 120+ years. An utterly exquisite piece!
I shall send the necklace in her original box by complimentary international courier or else by special delivery within the UK. Thank you.
