Pretty Pendant with Unusual Diamonds in Silver on Gold, c. 1905

In the years around 1900, the curved, natural forms of Art Nouveau were primarily associated with artistic natures, with the bohemians of the time - in short, those who wore striking Art Nouveau creations tended to like it bold. Particularly in aristocratic circles and among the wealthy bourgeoisie of the time, fashion developed towards more classic, timeless forms instead. This was based on the gallant style that had dominated the reign of French King Louis XVI more than a century earlier: laurel wreaths, garlands and bow motifs adorned high-quality diamond jewellery - known as high jewellery - for the evening. This pendant is a reminiscence of the time of Marie Antoinette, reinterpreted in the style of the Belle Époque. Its showpiece consists of a loop ornament set all over with rose-cut diamonds, which merges into a wreath with a flared frame. A diamond in an unusual table cut sits in the center of the pendant. The warm tinted color stone weighing around 0.45 ct is oval, flat and bevelled on the sides. In earlier times, diamonds like this were often used in rings to cover a miniature, transparent yet durable stone. It is very likely that it was used here in a secondary application and was cut as early as the 17th or 18th century: In the time of Marie Antoinette, so that shape and material complement each other perfectly here. We believe that the pendant was created in the early years shortly after 1900. A simple chain completes the pendant, allowing the piece of jewellery to nestle softly against the décolleté and not appear rigid despite its festive appearance.

Estimate:£1,605.42

View all items fromHofer AntikschmuckorJewellery & Gems