This elegant 18k yellow gold necklace has seven spacers, shaped as ivy leaves. Ivy leaves were a very popular motive in 19th Century jewellery, but were also used profusely in the Art Nouveau period, when this necklace was created.
Ivy has been used as a symbol of love, friendship, and loyalty, since its vines and leaves steadily yet strongly grow over their host object over time - they are also used to literally convey that you can 'lean on me'. An ancient myth states that it ivy around the altar of Hymenaios, the Greek God of Marriage. As such ivy was often presented to the bride and groom as a symbol of devotion, fidelity, and loyalty. These ancient meanings were later adopted by the Christian faith and is often seen carved on Christian tombs, and placed on the graves of the dead on All Soul's Day.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 45 cm / 17.75 inches.
Weight: 11.25 grams.
Age: Early 20th Century, circa 1900.
Material: The necklace carries a French eagle heads hallmark for 18k gold. It also has a makers mark, which unfortunately cannot be read anymore.
Condition: This necklace is in great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
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