Object Description
A beautiful Victorian rivière diamond necklace c.1860s set with forty old mine cushion cut diamonds in silver cut down collets backed with gold, the graduated diamonds estimated to weigh a combined total of approximately 25cts, to a concealed diamond set tongue and box clasp. This necklace is beautifully articulated and feels wonderfully silky and fluid. The diamonds are bright and lively and have been nicely graduated in a continual tapering from front to back. The rivière necklace was an extremely popular design in the 18th and 19th centuries and was made from both diamonds and coloured stones, in both uniform and graduated rows. The name translates literally as ‘river’ which perfectly alludes to the way these rows of stones would ripple around the base of the throat when worn. They were a favourite with Royalty and courtiers both in Europe and further afield and were often worn in multiples to emphasise wealth and status.
Period
Victorian, circa 1860s
Gemstones
40 x old mine cushion cut diamonds weighing an estimated combined total of approximately 25.6cts and ranging from an estimated 0.24cts to 2.02cts
Setting
Silver and gold
Weight
47 grams
Dimensions
16″ / 40cm long
Diameter of centre front 11.5mm graduating down to 7.2mm at back
Condition
Very fine