Belle Époque Amethyst, Diamond, Pearl and Platinum Pendant Necklace, Circa 1910

£13,000.00

Description

A Belle Époque amethyst, diamond, pearl and platinum pendant necklace, featuring a large, round faceted amethyst, with an estimated weight of 70.00 carats, surmounted by a fan garland of old-cut diamonds, with a drop shape diamond, in millegrain edged rub over settings, mounted in platinum, onto a natural pearl and platinum trace chain, with a jump and bolt ring, with a gold pusher, circa 1910. The estimated total weight of the diamonds is 2.00 carats. In our opinion the colour range is J to L and our opinion of the clarity is SI.

Some of the earliest examples of amethyst jewellery are seen in works from Egypt. The ancient Greeks believed amethyst protected them from drunkenness and excess. The name derives from the Greek amethystos - "methustos" meaning intoxicated, with the prefix "a" meaning "not". It is thought the myth stems from the story of the titan Rhea giving Dionysus, the god of wine and madness, an amethyst to protect him. Amethyst is also known as the stone of St. Valentine, leading to the belief that it represented pure, chaste love. Until the 1700s Amethyst was seen as one of the cardinal gemstones, which were the most valuable gems and ranked in value amongst sapphire, ruby and emerald. It was especially popular during the Victorian period, with its rich purple colour and clarity being particularly effective in candlelight. Today its beautiful, vivid purple shades are highly sought after by gem collectors.

With thanks to Laura Preshong and First Class Watches.

Approximate weight: 26.2 grams

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Product REF: XAZ11225N3