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Rarities Antique Jewelry
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Pompeii Treasure - Georgian 14k lava stone & freshwater pearl necklace. This necklace is so special. It is comprised of a beautiful polished muted greenish grey lava cabochon and genuine graduated freshwater pearls . The lave stone is hand set in a gold bezel. Dangling from the bezel are five genuine fresh water pearls that are suspended. The chain is also 14K gold (tested) with a cylinder type clasp.
Note: After the discovery of the buried cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Stabiae Circa 1748, a new type of "Grand Tour" souvenir jewelry emerged, created from the lava flows which covered the towns, keeping them hidden for 1700 years (the initial eruption Vesuvius was in 79AD) Lava from this area held a limited palette of colour, off white to a muted grey green. Italian artisans usually carved the lava into cameos of various sizes: then combined the colours in bracelets or necklaces holding multiple cameos.
This particular piece is so appealing , because of it's simple polished cabochon it can be worn casually or dressed up. Just imagine owning a piece of early history to be enjoyed for many years to come.
Measurements: Oval pendant: 1 3/4" x 3/4" Height of Cabochon and pearl drop 1 1/2 " Chain: 15"
Weight: 16.8 grams
Condition: Excellent
Origin: Italy
Date: Circa 1820 Note: Chain may have been replaced , however this makes the piece extremely wearable because of the durability of the chain.