Quite beautiful, this high carat gold and amethyst necklace is English, circa 1850.
Amethysts can be found as early as 2000BC. In the Middle Ages, it was considered a symbol of royalty. Before large deposits were found in Brazil at the beginning of the 19th century, amethysts were valued as much as precious stones: diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. The amethyst stone when found would be reserved for the finest jewels, prized for its beautiful color and rarity. It was used for the royal jewels, the clergy as well as the aristocracy.
This necklace is mid 19th century. It is bold in scale and set in high carat gold (between 15 and 18 carat) with hand crimped bezels.
The stones are mixed cuts and have an approximate total weight of 189 carats! The color of the amethysts vary and are finely cut with a large table and perimeter facets to reflect the light.
The original secure clasp is set with a foil back amethyst. There is a contemporary safety chain that has been added and can easily be removed if desired.
It measures 16.5 inches long. The central stone is approximately 3/4 inches x 3/4 inches. It should be worn close to the neck and if you have a slender neck, the smaller stones near the clasp can be easily removed.
It is in excellent condition. This is an elegant, statement necklace, rare and beautiful.
England, circa 1850

+++Please note all items listed as silver or gold are either marked or have been tested to guarantee the metal content+++

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