Antique Art Nouveau Floral Drapery Necklace with Rose Cut Diamond c. 1910

This whimsical antique 18k gold drapery necklace features a floral design typical of the French Art Nouveau period. Drawing inspiration from nature, the necklace shows the exceptional goldsmith work of the past. It bears the French eagle's head hallmark which has been in use since 1838 and remains one of the best known French hallmarks, guaranteeing at least 18k or 750 gold. It's incredible to see the detailing on the leaves as each tiny piece has been sculpted to give a sense of realism. It features roses and Lenten roses, which represented different things according to their color, but most commonly were a symbol of love. Lenten roses could also represent a plea from a lover to "relieve my anxiety" or reassure me of your sentiments. Mixed with the roses this could be an old school way of saying "I love you, do you love me too?" This style of necklace, called a “draperie” was a popular form among Parisian jewelers around 1900-10. This one is particularly exceptional due to the hanging open backed rose cut diamond which measures an impressive 5.5 mm in diameter. The necklace is stamped with French 18K gold marks, as well as an illegible maker’s mark. This type of necklace is a highly collectible piece that is difficult to come by as their lightweight and delicate nature meant they were often broken then smelted with time.

CONDITION NOTES:
The necklace is in very good antique condition. It has one visible repair on the top length of chain between the central rose station cluster and extending to the left smaller rose cluster. A portion of the chain has been replaced and is a slightly rounder belcher chain. There is visible oxidation on the connecting link, visible in photo four. Otherwise, the rose stations are in excellent condition and the rose cut diamond is well set. The original spring ring is in excellent condition and closes securely with good tension and alignment.

Material: 18k Gold (eagle head), rose cut diamond
Weight: 8.20 g
Period: Art Nouveau c. 1900
Length: 17.5" or 44.5 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.