Antique Negligé Pendant with Moonstones and Diamonds, c. 1900

The moonstone is one of the gemstones that we began to encounter more frequently in antique jewellery only towards the end of the 19th century. At that time, it was valued less for its rarity than for its extraordinary play of light, as the moonstone is characterized by its adularescence—a bluish-white sheen that glides across its surface when the stone is moved. Moonstones from Sri Lanka, then known as Ceylon, usually have a nearly transparent to milky-white body with a delicate blue sheen. Indian moonstones, on the other hand, are distinguished by a significantly cloudier, often slightly orange-tinged base color. This pendant is typical of goldsmith work c. 1900. Three finely cut moonstones, most likely of Ceylonese origin, are set in simple gold settings: a large oval cabochon forms the centerpiece, with two smaller moonstones hanging below it as movable pendants on delicate chains. This so-called “négligé” style gives the pendant its elegantly dynamic appearance. Set into the pendants are also two old-cut diamonds, whose sparkle complements the shimmer of the moonstones. The gold settings are otherwise free of superfluous decoration, allowing the gemstones to take center stage. We have added a gold anchor chain so that the pendant can be worn immediately. A high-quality example of antique moonstone jewellery that impressively reflects the era’s preference for subtle play of light, balanced proportions, and high-quality natural gemstones.

Estimate:$2,459.28

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