Why do seed pearls and diamonds look so perfect together?
This gorgeous thing was made by Cartier in 1915. It’s quintessential sautoir, with its woven seed pearl chain, long length, and pendant.
The articulated openwork pendant is set in the center with an old European-cut diamond weighing approximately 1.30 carats, which is framed by old mine diamonds weighing approximately 7.10 carats. The pendant loop connecting the pendant to the chain is also set with small rose-cut diamonds. The pendant hangs from a seed pearl necklace, accented by old European-cut and single-cut diamonds.
The entire piece measures 23 1/4 inches long, so it’s about breastbone length.
Check out this antique photo of the young Queen Mother, Duchess of York wearing a similar piece in 1924. The pendant isn’t in the photo, sadly, but the chain looks almost identical. How would you style this piece for contemporary wear?
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