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from the archive
VictorianTurquoise and DiamondHand, Wreath and Heart Locket
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In early Islamic culture, turquoise was regarded as a sacred stone, prominently displayed in symbols of power and opulence. Once Eurasian trade routes evolved and the gem reached Europe, Westerners fell for for its sky blue color and exotic allure. In fact, the word "turquoise" is derived from the French pierre turque ("Turkish stone") which lends credence to the widely held belief that the stone was first brought to the Western world by the Turks in the 13th century. This sensational early Victorian necklace features a beautifully modeled cuffed hand grasping a wreath of forget me nots and a heart-shaped locket all studded in bright turquoise cabochons and flinty rose cut diamonds. The pendant is suspended from a substantial 18k gold chain and finished with a blue enamel clasp. This stunning and near immaculate piece comes in its original fitted box.

thedetails

  • Materials

    18k yellow gold, silver, 27 rose cut diamonds, turquoise cabochons

  • Age

    c. 1840

  • Condition

    Excellent - one small chip to the enameled clasp but otherwise immaculate

  • Size

    Pendant measures 1 5/8" long and 3/4" at the widest point, 15 1/2" chain

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Victorian

Aboutthe

VictorianEra

18371901