Art Nouveau jewellery of the late 19th Century until the early 20th Century is easily identified by having very smooth, flowing often feminine lines and curves, and was pioneered by the French with so much grace and elegance, and here is a truly gorgeous antique Art Nouveau natural pearl and diamond necklace that is the epitome of elegance and class.
Made in France in the late 1800's in 18 carat yellow gold, even the colour of the gold has a wonderful satin finish to it that "softens" the look of it perfectly.
And the way it sits perfectly in the centre will make this one piece that is destined to always be admired each and every time that it is worn as well as surprising so many when they learn that it is over 130 years old, yet is still as fashionable today as when it was made.
The elegant centerpiece measures 27mm across by 37mm and from end to the the necklace measures 47cm in length.
On both sides there are two natural pearls with the one set at the top and one at the bottom, and on one side of the pendant just above this pearl are four single cut diamonds that total 0.04 carats and sparkle so elegantly in the light.
This necklace is so attractive and truly defines the grace and elegance of the era.
Stock # ET1402
Circa: 1890
$Sold.
Out of stock
Diamond and pearl Art Nouveau necklace
Diamond and pearl Art Nouveau necklace made in France in the late 1800's.
When was the Art Nouveau era?
As this was an era defined by style, rather than a ruler, the exact ages are not distinct. Having said that, it is generally accepted to be from the 1890's until the start of World War One in 1914.
The Art Nouveau era started in the 1890's and continued to the start of World War One in 1914. Whereas the Victorian era used a lot of symmetry, Art Nouveau jewellery started to use more "organic" styles as well as no longer being symmetrical. The term "whiplash design" is one that is often used to describe some Art Nouveau forms of jewellery.
With a style that is very feminine, Art Nouveau jewellery has a very soft, free flowing style. This has produced its very own distinct style and genre.
Materials and techniques not previously used before in jewellery making in Europe and the United Kingdom were now being used.
Enamelling was used quite extensively, and this was not limited to being used on "precious" metals such as gold. The use of silver became very popular as a metal to create jewellery that is still today breathtaking.
This included the wonderful enamelling technique of plique a jour a French term meaning "open to light" where the finished piece has transparent enamel held between the thin metal wires.
Other materials used during the Art Nouveau period was ivory, amber and blister pearls to name a few.
Some of the more famous jewellers of this period include Rene Lalique, Carl Faberge, George Fouquet, and Louis Tiffany. These were people who often did not limit themselves to just jewellery and from their factories produced some of the most breathtaking works of art in the form of lamps and lampshades, bowls and various other works of art.
Click here to see some more antique necklaces and pendants that are currently instore:
https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/antique-pendant-antique/
Click here to see more Art Nouveau jewellery that is currently instore:
https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/art-nouveau-jewellery-antique/
Click here for a link to the beautiful and historic Queen Victoria Building. We are on the top floor and are the only antique jewellery store in the building:
