This delicate gold and diamond festoon necklace, circa 1900, embodies the refined artistry of the Late Victorian period. Crafted in 9K gold, the necklace features five ivy leaf-shaped drops, each adorned with a flush-set old European cut diamond. The ivy leaf, a symbol of fidelity and everlasting love in Victorian jewellery, adds a layer of sentimentality to this piece, making it not only a beautiful adornment but also a token of enduring affection.

The intricate design incorporates scrolling cannetille work, a hallmark of fine Victorian craftsmanship. The scroll motifs are connected by a delicate trace belcher chain, creating a graceful drape along the neckline. The finely crafted cannetille scrolls and barrel clasp reflect the exceptional attention to detail of this necklace.

The ivy drops each measure 14mm by 6mm, and are spaced evenly along the chain, with each drop linked by two fine draping chains that enhance the festoon’s fluid movement. The old European cut diamonds, each approximately 2mm in diameter, add a subtle sparkle to the piece, catching light with every movement. These diamonds are flush-set, a setting style popular in the era that protects the stones while allowing them to sit smoothly within the gold.

Size and Condition: The necklace has a total length of 38cm or 15” (‘choker’ necklace length) and weighs 5.64 grams, allowing it to rest comfortably at the base of the neck. The piece remains in excellent condition, with all diamonds securely set and minimal signs of wear, commensurate with its age. A truly beautiful example of turn-of-the-century craftsmanship, steeped with symbolism beloved by the Victorians.

The Victorian era was a period of great change and innovation in the world of jewellery. Spanning from 1837 to 1901, the era witnessed an explosion of styles from romantic and sentimental to Gothic and grotesque. The use of jet, onyx, and coral in mourning jewellery became popular after the death of Prince Albert in 1861. The discovery of diamond mines in South Africa in 1867 led to an increase in the use of diamonds in jewellery, as well as the popularity of more elaborate gemstone cuts such as the cushion, rose, and old mine cuts.

Victorian jewellery was also notable for its use of complex symbolism, such as snake motifs that represented eternal love or the use of flowers to convey hidden meanings. The jewellery made in this era featured the finest materials and was made by highly skilled craftsmen, making it some of the most desirable antique jewellery for its unique charm and fine quality.

DELIVERY

We are pleased to offer free worldwide shipping on all our orders. We dispatch all items via a secure and trackable delivery service providing full insurance for your item. You will receive a shipping confirmation email after purchase with your tracking number so that you know your order is on its way. We aim to dispatch all items within 1-2 working days after payment has been received.

For UK delivery, we send with Royal Mail Special Delivery, arriving by the next working day. For International orders over £1000 we use DHL Express International, and for orders under £1000 we use Royal Mail International Tracked and Signed. All items are sent fully insured.

You can find more information about our shipping policy here.

RETURNS

We understand that purchasing antique jewellery online can be a daunting task, which is why we offer an easy, no-hassle returns policy. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply get in touch within 14 days of receipt for a full refund, no questions asked. We want our customers to feel confident when buying from us, and our returns policy is just one way we ensure this.

Conditions: Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. All items are to be returned in their original condition and packaging. Buyer damaged items and items bought on layaway are ineligible for returns. Items over £2500 can be returned for store credit only.

You can find more information about our returns policy here.