Lavalier necklaces are characterized by a pendant or drop which are the central part of the necklace, rather than forming a separate part of the necklace. These types of necklaces were made popular by the Duchesse de la Vallière, a mistress of King Louis XIV of France (1754-1793). They were also very on-trend in the first half of the 20th Century, often studded with several diamonds, as in this example.
This lavalier necklace is made from 14k gold, with a drop pendant that is centered by an old European-cut diamond of circa 0.50 carats. Its colour is estimated at H-I and its clarity at pique, which means that there are inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye, including one right under the table. The drop is further set with two tiny rose-cut diamonds. The front of the setting is made from platinum, and all diamonds are all placed in open settings, allowing light to pass through the stones.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 40 cm / 17.25 inches long
Pendant drop: 29 mm.
Weight: 3.34 grams
Age: Early 20th Century, early Art Deco era, circa 1920s.
Material: The necklace carries a Dutch hallmark for 14k gold, used between 1905 and 1952. The back of the pendant also carries the maker's mark 'J.H' for the jeweler J.J> Holzapfel, who operated in The Hague between 1913 and 1946.
Condition: In good antique condition, with only minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes.