Antique pink topaz and gold necklace.

I have a very severe crush on this antique pink topaz and gold necklace.

This antique pink topaz necklace is from 1830. The chain is made of pairs of looped links surmounted by a stylized repousse bow motif. The central element features 24 oval and pear-shaped foiled-back pink topaz stones set in a floral design which is also decorated with repousse scrolls. The floral design is framed on either side by a spray of finely worked golden leaves. There is also – very fabulously – a single pink topaz adorning the clasp, because why not?

I really enjoy the thickness of the gold chain here: it balances out the sweetness of the sweetly pink foiled-back stones. And how marvelously pink they are ! The foiled-back technique is very characteristic of the time period in which this was made. It means that a thin sheet of material – probably metal – was applied to the back of each pink topaz.

Here’s a close look at some of the details. I wish the original photo had been a bigger; I wanted a closer look at those leaves. But this at least gives you a good view of the fabulous center element.

This antique pink topaz and gold necklace was sold in a Doyle New York Auction. All images and info are thanks to Doyle New York.

Like this post? Share it!

• Share

• Pinterest

Related