A truly exceptional antique Art Nouveau pendant in 9ct rose gold set with two beautiful amethyst gemstones and numerous seed pearls. Complete with a substantial vintage 9ct gold chain, 47cm/18" long chain, Weighing an impressive 8.2gms with the pendant. It is marked "9ct" on the back, although this is now very feint.
This stunning piece is an original, genuine antique and a wonderful example of early 20th century jewellery. It comes in the vintage jewellery box pictured,
The overall condition of the pendant is good, with some light surface wear and distortion to the metalwork that is expected due to its age. For a more detailed assessment of the condition, see our high-resolution photos.
The pendant measures approximately 45mm long including the ornate bale that is also set with delicate seed pearls. It is made of rose gold, which is a mixture of yellow gold, copper, and silver. Rose gold is no different from yellow or white gold in terms of purity and is highly prized for its warm, rosy hue. It gained popularity in the 19th century and was favoured by Russian nobility, thanks to the renowned jeweller Carl Fabergé.
The pendant is adorned with amethyst gemstones - typically associated with purple and violet colours. Amethyst is said to represent virtue, groundedness, tranquility, and calmness. It is also believed to convey strength and wit to the wearer. Amethyst is the birthstone for February and is often seen as a symbol of personal empowerment and inner strength. It is also associated with 6th anniversaries.
The pendant also features seed pearls, which are small natural pearls with a diameter of less than 2mm. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the use of seed pearls in fine jewellery was highly popular. Elaborately decorated brooches, pendants, pins, and earrings with seed pearls were fashionable during that time. Pearls, including seed pearls, are often associated with purity, chastity, and delicacy. Pearl is the birthstone for June and is commonly associated with 30th anniversaries.
This pendant is one of the finest examples of handmade jewellery from this particularly stylish era, offering a touch of history and elegance to its wearer.