Victorian, C1900
A stunning paste necklace set with clear paste gemstones. The chunky old cut stones are set in open-back silver and gold settings, allowing the light to shine through with unrivalled sparkle. The showstopper is the cushion cut drop, foiled and closed back. Dating from the turn of the century, circa 1900, it has a wearable length of 18 inches.
Paste gemstones have a rich history, spanning several centuries. They are a type of leaded glass invented to mimic the appearance of natural gemstones. The origins of paste jewellery can be traced back to the mid-18th century when Georges Frederic Stras, a jeweller from Strasbourg, moved to Paris in 1724 and began creating these convincing gemstone substitutes for the French court. Paste jewellery gained popularity during the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras, admired for its affordability and brilliance. Often set in silver or gold, paste pieces were meticulously crafted to reflect the same sparkle and elegance as genuine gemstones, making them a beloved choice among both the aristocracy and the burgeoning middle class.
MATRIALS
Clear Paste Gemstones
DIMENSIONS
Drop: 18.5 x 14.8 mm
Paste Section: Approximately 9cm
Chain: 2.01 mm
Wearable Length: 18"
WEIGHT
19.3 grams
MARKS
Not marked, tests as 9k gold and Silver
CONDITION
Excellent
