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Antique

Antique French Georgian Silver Diamond Paste Riviére Ribbon Necklace

Antique French Georgian Silver Diamond Paste Riviére Ribbon Necklace

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Authentic and rare Georgian period French heavy silver and diamond paste Riviére necklace. Styled in the classic "Riviére" style ("Riviére" means River of the stones in French), this stunning antique necklace was entirely handmade featuring heavy silver mounts set with glass pastes, quartz and gilt metal etched applications. As no two Georgian pieces are alike, this highly collectible necklace dates to the 1780s and when you look closely you can see the small imperfections in each handmade link, only further showing off the intensity of the jeweler's skill. 

The necklace has a black gros-grain ribbon instead of a clasp - common at that time. Most authentic Georgian or Victorian necklaces on the market today have a chain which was added (later) to make it longer and convenient for the wearer. As short necklaces were very popular during the Georgian period, the most desirable styles included dog collars and chokers, often made with ribbons instead of clasps.

History of How Georgian Jewelry Was Made:
Georgian jewelry is a very special type of antique jewelry; it was made all by hand for wear in natural lighting. As there was no electricity during the 1700s and 1800s, jewelry designers often used foiled backings for their gemstones and pastes to intensify the glitter and sparkle of the stones under candlelight.

Condition:
Excellent vintage condition. Some patina to gilt applications on links. All paste stones are present, the very last paste on the left link side looks to have been replaced. No other repairs visible.

Authenticity: 
This item was appraised by Clars auction gallery as an original necklace from the Georgian Period. There are obvious signs that this item was hand-crafted. The foils look to have a small fleck of gold in them, as when looking closely the pastes give off a slight golden glow. 

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