Description
Georgian rows of gold necklace. Rare French regional necklace in yellow gold 18 karats. It is made of ten belcher (or rolo) chains. The clasp is the main decorative element of the jewel. It is enamelled blue and white with triangular and circular decoration. The reverse side of the clasp bears the initials “P…”. This necklace is worn as a choker. Late 18th – early 19th century necklace, Auvergne, France.
Hallmarked with rooster head turned to the right (Paris, 1798-1809), Goldsmith’s hallmark
Total length of the necklace at the shortest: 31 cm – Height when worn. 15/16 cm
Clasp size: 3.4 cm x 2 cm
Condition: a few tiny cracks in the enamel.
Weight : 58,45 gr
Historical point : this jewel is typical of the Auvergne region, it consists of several flat link chains or jaseron, linked to a large engraved and often enamelled clasp. It is quite rare to find a necklace where no row is missing from the clasp. It can be worn with the chains in the back and the clasp on the front, or in the traditional way.
For more information on regional French jewellery, please read Michael C.W. Fieggen’s book on Traditionnal French Jewellery.