Magnificent ANTIQUE BOHEMIAN GARNET Necklace with Shamrocks!!

Jewelry : Antique : Fine : Victorian : Victorian Bohemian Garnet : Necklace

 

Whether anyone likes it or not, when demand exceeds supply, prices rise. And in the last few months I have seen the gradual rise in the pricing of Victorian Bohemian Garnet necklaces. Why? Well, the best ones are snapped up quickly, while the ones that are in the "mid" category are being broken into earrings. It's a sad fact that if a garnet necklace is broken up, it will sell for more as pairs of earrings. You see, EVERYONE wants garnet earrings! So, here I have a dilemma. I have found the most exquisite garnet necklace but seriously, I too am thinking about taking it apart to make earrings. But first, I have to offer it intact and whole.

The neck length of this magnificent Antique Victorian necklace is 18". The center pendant alone measures 3-1/2" and has a center width of 2-3/4" from the top of the shamrock to the bottom drop. Yes, I said shamrocks - look closely, there are 3 of them in the center design!

The garnet necklace is comprised of almondine (flat top) garnets as well as faceted garnets. The number of garnets defies count and the gemstone weight has to be UMPTEEN carats; both sides of the necklace comprise 12.18 Carats alone.

The back closure mechanism is a "tongue in" catch and as is the case with most of these necklaces, the safety chain is missing. This is easily replaced with a piece of old or modern chain with a spring catch. Then there is the only faux pas I can spot - the bottom drop has a replaced stone which is definitely NOT the same size as the others. I will look in my storehouse of garnets and will see if I can come up with a replacement. In any event, if I can't, this size can be purchased from a jeweler. The metal setting appears to be low carat gold over silver although I have not tested the necklace to be absolutely sure. There are no hallmarks on the piece anywhere.

So, there you have it. As usual, the piece is far better looking in person than my poor pics show. This is a necklace that doesn't come along too often. Sure, it's not a festoon, but for someone with Irish heritage, I don't think you could find a better design.

Too utterly lovely and a piece of Antique Jewelry that will only appreciate in value! Anyone want?

(SCJ)

Item ID: RL-2478