Created in the most stunning and unusual design, this beautifully hand crafted, multiple hinged Lavalier pendant/necklace is in immaculate condition given it's 100 + year old age. Comprising of a central scroll/leaf section, 48mm length, flanked by further scroll/swirl sections, then again a further two completing the design, all five sections are individually hinged, measuring a total of 120mm across. Centre section is set with a single 6mm round pale Aquamarine, 16 x fine Seed Pearls, with a 7x5mm Pear shape Blue Topaz suspended below. Each side section has a 5mm round Aquamarine with 12 x Seed Pearls in each and the outer section has a further 4mm round Aquamarine with 5 x Seed Pearls set in. A total of 5 x Aquamarine Stones, a single Blue Topaz stone and 50 tiny Seed Pearls, all present. The original chain was so fine, thin and worn, when I purchased this piece in 1984, I replaced the original trace chain with a very pretty and more substantial, 9ct Gold, Popcorn link chain, with a 6mm Bolt spring clasp. The chain can be easily detached should anyone require a longer or different chain length, without damaging or affecting the Lavalier Pendant itself.
The lines created by a Lavalier,
are sleek, elegant, and sensual. Finely crafted in delicate Gold with beautiful detail, often incorporating a single shining Semi-precious Gemstones, like a teardrop running off a cheek, or a dew drop on the tip of a leaf. Lavalier necklaces have existed in some form for hundreds of years and this example dates to the start of the 20th Century.
The term “Lavalier” has a few different interpretations. Some use it to only refer to necklaces in which the creation, or pendant, is attached on either side to a fine chain without a traditional bail or jump ring. Others use it to describe any elongated pendant from the turn of the 20th Century. Generally the pendant finishes in a single stone dangling from the base, often a pearl or semi-precious Gemstone. A Lavalier necklace is also sometimes called a ‘Y’necklace and often has delicate, intricate filigree work, sometimes with leaf and floral motifs.
Lavaliers are believed to have been named after the ‘Duchess Louise de La Vallière’, the mistress of French King, Louis XIV in the mid 17th Century. Also could be attributed the name to the French actress, ‘Ève Lavallière’, who's career spanned the end of the 1800's. She received that stage name because she often would wear that same style of necklace. Eve undoubtedly contributed to the Lavalier’s renewed popularity at the turn of the 20th Century. In the Victorian Era (1837-1901), Lavalier pendants were sweet, delicate and detailed, with floral motifs and delicate set Seed Pearls. In the Art Nouveau (1890-1910) style, Lavalier pendants had elongated, swirling lines, with curves that mimicked the forms found in nature. As fashion transitioned into the architectural opulenceof the Art Deco era (1920-1939), the Lavalier followed suit, with a more geometric symmetry and Diamond encrusted designs. This coincided with the Golden Age of Hollywood and actresses often wore Lavalier necklaces that were perfectly suited to the plunging necklines of their silk gowns.
This Lavalier Necklace deceptively weighs in at 10.8 grammes, is in superb condition, highly collectable and a rare piece of this type would most certainly sell at a retail value out at over £1200.00 retail.
The beautiful, Antique box shown in the picture is included in the sale, although the Lavalier Necklace fits and sits inside, I cannot guarantee it is the original one supplied with the piece.
Perfect for anyone who is an antique jewellery enthusiast or collector.
All items listed are remaining stock from a now retired, long established, High Street Jewellers.
The prices of each item represent excellent value as many are at least 5 years or more old.
Post pandemic, new Gold and Jewellery costs have soared so buying old/used/pre-owned pieces are considerably less than new and will continue to prove a good investment in the future.
All listings will be despatched within 24 hours, via Royal Mail Special Delivery, (if over £100), or by Royal Mail Signed For/Tracked, if under £100. Postage is FREE OF CHARGE.
If items listed show a box or case within the pictures section, that box/case will be included. Otherwise, items without a box/case shown, will be securely wrapped and protected before despatch.
Please note also that as these items are ex-stock/clearance lines, they are all NON-RETURNABLE and NON-REFUNDABLE. Descriptions are accurate and honest. Any further questions, please ask via e-bay messaging service BEFORE bidding/buying, in order to avoid any misunderstanding and upset. Thank you. Finally, please also note that we accept ONLY payment via e-bay OR credit/debit card. NO CASH TRANSACTIONS WHATSOEVER