A late 19th-century 18KT gold necklace built from repeating links decorated with applied granulation: clusters of tiny gold spheres, each a centre granule ringed by six more, fused to the surface rather than cast with it.
Granulation is one of the oldest goldsmithing techniques there is, Etruscan in origin and revived in the 1800s by makers like Castellani who were reconstructing ancient work. Doing it well is difficult: the beads must be fused without melting or flooding with solder, and the crispness of these clusters is the mark of a good hand.
At 25 grams and 46.5cm it is a substantial chain that wears beautifully on its own, and it fastens with a box clasp secured by two hinged safety catches.
Dimensions -
Length: 46.5 cm
Width: 0.4 cm
Weight: 25 grams
Specifications -
Period: Late 19th century
Metal: 18KT gold
Design: Repeating links with applied granulated decoration
Clasp: Box clasp with two hinged safety catches
Condition :
In very good antique condition, with light surface wear consistent with age.
A late 19th-century 18KT gold necklace built from repeating links decorated with applied granulation: clusters of tiny gold spheres, each a centre granule ringed by six more, fused to the surface rather than cast with it.
Granulation is one of the oldest goldsmithing techniques there is, Etruscan in origin and revived in the 1800s by makers like Castellani who were reconstructing ancient work. Doing it well is difficult: the beads must be fused without melting or flooding with solder, and the crispness of these clusters is the mark of a good hand.
At 25 grams and 46.5cm it is a substantial chain that wears beautifully on its own, and it fastens with a box clasp secured by two hinged safety catches.
Dimensions -
Length: 46.5 cm
Width: 0.4 cm
Weight: 25 grams
Specifications -
Period: Late 19th century
Metal: 18KT gold
Design: Repeating links with applied granulated decoration
Clasp: Box clasp with two hinged safety catches
Condition :
In very good antique condition, with light surface wear consistent with age.
