Antique Georgian Foiled Garnet Rivière with Pendant, c. 1820

This necklace is of the so-called rivière type. The term is derived from the French word for "river" and describes the flowing impression of the densely set, lustrous gemstones, which almost seem to float on the skin in their restrained settings. Almandine garnets were used here, which are characterized by their deep, slightly bluish shade of red reminiscent of rose petals. The garnets are set in front of reflective silver foils, making their color appear particularly rich. Depending on the incidence of light, the garnets have intensely bright reflections. The flat cut of the garnets with a large table allows wonderful insights into the deep color effect. Delicate, pinched settings made of rose gold hold the stones, which are arranged close together. A pendant is suspended in the middle; it can be taken off or replaced with another pendant. The rich colour effect was particularly coveted around 1820, when radiant colours and colourful gemstones once again became the focus of fashion after the strict and sometimes cool restraint of classicism. This necklace is a beautiful and characteristic example of this elegant and vibrant chapter in jewellery history. We have reproduced a fashion illustration from the Costume Parisien of 1819, which gives an impression of the fashion worn with a similar necklace.

Estimate:$5,154.38

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