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BelleEpoqueJewelers

51" Georgian 18K Solid Gold Long Guard Chain, Antique French Long Articulated Chain c. 1830

51" Georgian 18K Solid Gold Long Guard Chain, Antique French Long Articulated Chain c. 1830

This stunning chain is ingenious in its construction. Typical of the late Georgian period, it has the appearance of a heavy and commanding chain when it has been cleverly constructed from lightweight thin sheets of gold. At the time gold was scarce, especially after the Napoleonic wars, necessitating jewelers to use as little gold as possible for maximum effect. This lovely chain features thin, hollow, interlocking articulated links with an engraved slide and an early dog clip clasp. Ingenious in its construction, the clasp opens by unscrewing a disc which holds the hook closed but which can be twisted back up to secure the clasp. It holds very well with very few marks of time and use. It looks fantastic doubled with the clasp to one side, as pictured.

The chain has a lovely rosy gold color, typical of French jewelry. French jewelers tended to use a higher percentage of copper alloy in their creations which gives a unique and beautiful color, far more subtle than modern rose gold. The chain is hallmarked with two owls, visible in photo ten, a chance hallmark for pieces which have had the original hallmarks worn with time, then stamped for re-sale some time after their initial construction. The piece can be dated with the matching slide, which has a hallmark of a left facing ram's head, in use in Paris between 1819-1838, placing the chain firmly in the Georgian period.

CONDITION NOTES:
Very good antique condition. You would never guess this old beauty is close to two hundred years old. The swivel clip opens easily and holds securely. You will need to make sure to twist the disc all the way to the top to close the catch. Note that the slide doesn't stay in place independently as gravity will cause it to move closer to the closure. You can always pin it or put something to keep it in place. There is one small hole to the back side of the slide, not visible when worn, due to old age and use. The chain will need to be handled with care. These pieces are well constructed but have become delicate with age and one good tug would likely cause a link to break, necessitating a repair.

Material: 18k Gold (owl hallmarks on long guard, ram head on the slide, eagle head on the dog clip clasp)
Weight: 20.30 g
Period: late Georgian c. 1830
Length: varies by how number of turns around the neck, but worn at its longest the necklace measures 51" or 130 cm

We are pleased to offer a layaway option in 2,3, or 4 monthly installments. You can message directly to set up a payment plan so that you can become the next owner of this beautiful piece of history.

All items in the shop are shipped with tracking and insurance within 48 hours of receiving an order. Items over 250 euros are shipped via Colissimo Express so that your item is in your hands as quickly as possible.

Please check all photos, descriptions, and measurements thoroughly. Contact me if you have any questions and I'll be happy to answer.

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