Recently Sold (VICP112)

Amethyst Allure - Victorian 14K Gold Natural Amethyst & Pearl Pendant & Chain. This exquisite pendant is crafted from 14K yellow gold, hallmarked 14K. The chain and bale are hallmarked 1/20 14K for 14K gold fill (The bale would have been a replacement at some point). The pendant features one natural square cut amethyst, 29 natural pearls, and one genuine tear-drop pearl. The gallery on this pendant showcases a diamond shaped medallion, which is adorned by an expertly claw-set vibrant purple amethyst, displaying purplish/violet hues. The luscious amethyst displays a gold frame surround, set with beautiful natural silvery/grey pearls, and a natural white pearl below it. The dangle is a white pearl in a lovely tear-drop shape, which finishes off the pendant beautifully. The chain is an antique belcher design, which features a spring ring clasp in perfect working order. This antique pendant would make a wonderful addition to any fine antique jewelry collection. 

Note: Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the value of antique jewelry. It is recommended that this pendant be insured for 1300.00 (Tax Excluded) 

History: Ancient Greeks and Romans believed this gemstone could ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus and keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. English regalia were decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty. Amethyst jewelry has been found and dated as early as 2000 BC.

Pearls were presented as gifts to Chinese royalty as early as 2300 BC, while in ancient Rome, pearl jewellery was considered the ultimate status symbol. So precious were the spherical gems that in the 1st century BC, Julius Caesar passed a law limiting the wearing of pearls only to the ruling classes.

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

Measurements: Pendant (Including bale) 41.00 mm x 19.00 mm    Chain: 18" 

Stone Size: Amethyst .40 carats    Pearl (Tear-drop) 7.00 mm x 6.50   Pearl (Natural Seed Pearls) 2.50 mm -1.00 mm 

Weight: 3.60 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America. 

Date: Circa 1880