C.1850-1860. A beautiful white paste rivière necklace. Set in silver, this necklace is made of white paste stones in graduated sizes. Each paste is clear and bright. This necklace dates later than the Georgian white paste rivière necklaces we had previously. This piece is especially wonderful because the desirable closed back has a rose gold wash application. It also has the original paste concealed clasp. The push tab closure snaps correctly and securely. A few stones appear to be old replacements. Overall, the necklace is in very good condition.
Paste jewelry was admired and collected by high society devotees because of its beauty, not as imitation diamond jewelry. Today, it is still appreciated for its beauty; pieces in good condition are rare.
The necklace measures approximately 16” in length, and the paste stones measure approximately 8mm in diameter (the largest) and gradually shrink down to the smallest stones which measure 5mm. The clasp paste diameter is 8mm.
Paired with this stunning Edwardian paste necklace.