This 14k yellow gold rivière necklace, which is known as a ‘bootjescollier’, is set with foiled paste stones. Each link is decorated with a border of circular filigree decorations, which are also known as cannetille. The clasp is cleverly hidden in a similar-looking link and was fitted with an extra safety chain at a later date, to prevent it from slipping off unnoticed.
Golden 'bootjescolliers' are typical Dutch necklaces, made in the Netherlands from the beginning of the 18th century. The term is used for link chains that consist of oval gold or silver 'boats', often in a filigree or cannetille setting.
The term boat in the name boat chain likely derived from the French term ‘boîte à portrait’. A ‘boîte à portrait’ was originally an oval miniature portrait of the French king Louis XIV, set in a precious frame with a border of precious stones. The links of these necklaces feature a gemstone encircled by a halo in a similar style to these ‘boîte à portraits', which is why these links ended up with the name ‘boat’.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 9 mm wide, 38 cm / 15 inches long.
Please note that this necklace will sit at choker length for most wearers.
Weight: 15.75 grams.
Age: Early 19th Century, circa 1850s.
Material: Most links are hallmarked with a Dutch hallmark for 14k gold, used between 1843 and 1905.
Condition: In great antique condition with minor wear, consistent with age. The foils behind the paste stones have created patina over time, giving them a slightly greyish appearance. The cannetille details are without damage, and the clasp is in great working order.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.