This pretty lavalier necklace is a clear blend of the romantic influences of the Belle Époque, with the upcoming trend of Art Deco, meaning it was made around 1910.
I suspect we even know the exact date that this necklace was made, since on the side, there is a tiny engraving that reads ‘24/4/11’ (you can see this in the sixth picture).
Lavalier necklaces are characterized by a pendant or drop that is the central part of the necklace, rather than forming a separate part of the necklace. The pendant of this necklace is topped by a floral-shaped element, which is studded with tiny natural pearls in cream and purple colours. From a rose-cut diamond-encrusted chain dangles a tiny bow-shaped drop, with a pear-shaped bottom element which is set with three antique-cut diamonds, encircled by a border of calibrated emeralds.
The term ‘lavalier necklace’ comes from the Duchesse de la Vallière, a mistress of King Louis XIV of France (1754-1793), who famously wore this style and created a craze for this design in the late 18th Century. Lavalier necklaces were also very on-trend in the first half of the 20th Century, as this example proves.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 39 cm / 15.35 inches long.
The pendant measures 48x15 mm.
Weight: 5.25 grams.
Age: early 20th Century, late Belle Époque / early Art Deco period, circa 1910.
Material: acid tested as being platinum.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import taxes.