Early Victorian Garnet Rivière
Striking garnet rivière necklace dating from the early Victorian period, circa 1840. The stones are deep, blood-red marquise cuts in individual gold mounts and set over foil that reflects the light back out making them appear to glow from within. Each stone connects to the next with a short length of chain, and the dish backs have a ridge running down their length, reminiscent of a ship's keel.
Susanne Gänsicke and Yvonne J. Markowitz, in their excellent book, Looking at Jewelry (2019), write of the rivière style:
Meaning "river" in French, referring to the way the necklace flows gracefully around the neck. The rivière is short (usually 14 to 16 inches long) and strung simply with a line of faceted gems or rhinestones, often graduating in size and individually set.
Era: Victorian, circa 1840
Length: 18 inches
Stones: Garnet (variety almandine-pyrope)
Marks: None, tested as 9ct gold
Condition: Very good antique condition, clasp is a later replacement
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