Recently Sold (VICN048)

Black Velvet - Victorian Gold Filled Amethyst Paste Choker Necklace.  This pretty necklace is crafted from gold fill metal, and the vintage ribbon is made from velvet. The choker features one amethyst paste oval cut faceted gemstone, Victorian era styling, and quality craftsmanship.  This lovely choker is comprised of a Victorian brooch and vintage black ribbon. The brooch is expertly bezel set with a beautiful amethyst paste gemstone. The ribbon simply ties in the back so it can be adjusted at your desired length. The brooch is removable so it can be worn on your favourite piece of clothing or as a choker. This Victorian era piece is elegant and so versatile! Truly a wonderful addition to any antique jewelry collection.

History: Paste jewellery dates back to France during the 18th century when a jeweller named Georges Frederic Stras began hand crafting fine-quality Paste jewellery in 1724. He was quickly then appointed as “Jeweller to the King”, and began making Paste jewellery for King Louis XV of France.

Where did velvet originate? The first velvet appeared in ancient Egypt and China, dating back to 2000 BC. The fabric was traded along the famous Silk Road to medieval Europe from the 1300s onwards. In Europe itself the cities of Venice and Genoa in Italy were some of the first to produce velvet. 

The history of chokers stretches back beyond the 1990s, to at least 2500 BC. Sumerian jewellers were crafting chokers thousands of years before they became a part of the youth sub-culture. Furthermore, almost all of the earliest civilizations on the planet wore chokers as a part of their cultural identity.

Measurements: Brooch 14.00 mm x 10.50 mm      Choker Necklace 31" (adjustable)

Stone Size: Amethyst Paste 12.00 mm x 8.00 mm 

Weight: 4.10 grams 

Condition: Very Good 

Origin: England 

Date: Circa 1890