18th Century Cut Steel Rivière
Glorious Georgian cut steel rivière necklace dating from the latter half of the 18th century, circa 1790. Constructed around a central three-dimensional flower with concentric halos of overlapping petals, the necklace itself is reminiscent of a laurel wreath, dotted with glistening faceted studs that shine and flash as it moves in the light - truly exceptional craftsmanship.
Cut steel is a curious medium: faceted steel studs, fashioned from the nails used to secure horseshoes, are riveted on to a metal frame, designed to gleam and glisten like diamonds under candlelight. Cut steel had been used to adorn shoe buckles, scissors, and watch chains since the early 18th century, with much of the early production taking place in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. With the popularity of shoe buckles waning towards the end of that century, the makers diversified into other decorative items including earrings, pendants, and brooches. Its popularity exploded when Napoleon presented his second wife Marie Louise with a full cut steel parure (as he was unable to afford one made with gemstones).
Era: Georgian, circa 1790
Length: 19 inches
Pendant size: 3.3cm by 3.0cm
Marks: None
Condition: Great antique condition, all present and original. Some spots of rust but mostly clean and bright - see images.
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
Leave a note at checkout with your desired size
Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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alex@lostowl.jewelry