Victorian era gold collar and diamond locket necklace, in 18k carat gold. In an Etruscan revival motif, the rose and yellow gold locket has 5 old mine-cut diamonds. The diamonds are estimated to weigh over 1.5 carats in total weight. Hollow links in a bold design form the chain. Preserved in its original fitted box. English in origin. Circa 1870.
The collar is quite nice when worn alone or for a bold look paired with the diamond locket. Other pendants can be attached to the interchangeable spring ring clasp. The locket can also be worn on a more simple chain making for a versatile necklace design.
Old mine cut diamonds were cut for gas and candle light and omit a darker romantic sparkle. While the precision faceting of modern stone’s main objective is to refract as much white light as possible. A 19th century diamond was cut to preserve as much weight as possible and often follow the same shape as the rough diamond crystal as it was pulled from the ground.
Hidden push clasp. Measures 18.50″ in length. Link measures 1″ by .50″