Antique Diamond Negligé Necklace in Platinum on Gold, c. 1905

Diamonds sparkle in delicate platinum claws that allow maximum light to reach them. The metal is shaped into delicate, counter-rotating curves that end in two pendulums of unequal length. Two beautiful old-cut diamonds of 0.70 ct and 0.11 ct sparkle at each end. This type of necklace, which enjoyed great popularity at the beginning of the early 20th century, is known as a lavallière. Jewellery history is divided on the origin of the name: either it comes from the actress Ève Lavallière, who is said to have loved wearing such necklaces, or it is derived from the Duchess Louise de La Vallière, who liked to tie men's ties into bows with unequal ends. The term ‘negligee necklace’ was also used for the same type of neck jewellery. Here, the term alludes to the casual elegance of such an asymmetrical piece of jewellery, as it is derived from the French word for ‘careless’. With its sparkling diamonds in white precious metal, the necklace was an evening piece of jewellery that accompanied its first owner to elegant soupers, receptions or even a ball. We would love to know what it must have experienced!)

Estimate:£2,794.62

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