The center of this 18k yellow gold necklace is decorated with a branch of ivy leaves, accented by a cream coloured seed pearl. Ivy leaves were a very popular motif in 19th-century jewellery and were also used profusely in the Art Nouveau period, when this necklace was created.
Ivy has been used as a symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty, since its vines and leaves steadily yet strongly grow over their host object over time; they are also used to literally convey that you can 'lean on me'.
An ancient myth states that it grew around the altar of Hymenaios, the Greek God of Marriage. As such, ivy was often presented to the bride and groom as a symbol of devotion, fidelity, and loyalty.
These ancient meanings were later adopted by the Christian faith and therefore, ivy is often carved on Christian tombs and placed on the graves of the dead on All Souls' Day.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 39 cm / 15.35 inches.
Weight: 5.90 grams.
Age: Early 20th Century, circa 1900.
Material: Hallmarked with a French eagle head hallmark for 18k gold. It also carries a maker's mark, which I was not able to identify.
Condition: In great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This store is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties and VAT.