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A lady with a love for literature and shiny things discusses books & bling.

Art Nouveau gold, diamond, ruby, emerald, and pearl pendant necklace.

The necklace I’m about to show you is exceptionally beautiful. It was made between 1890 and 1910. The design is abstract, but you can see a foliate influence in the vine and leaf-like feel of certain elements.

With 140 old European-cut diamonds with an approximate total weight of 4.10 carats, 25 round-cut rubies with an approximate total weight of 4.15 carats, 5 round-cut emeralds with an approximate total weight of .10 carats, it has some lovely sparkle and color. The pendant culminates in a pearl drop. The larger pendant detaches and can be worn as a brooch.

It’s delicate but it’s on the larger side, at 24 inches in length and 2 1/2 inches wide at the widest point.  Because of the necklace length, that pearl would either be dangling mid-decolletage in a plunging dress, or resting on fabric.

Art Nouveau gold, diamond, ruby, emerald, and pearl pendant necklace. Via Diamonds in the Library.

This unique necklace is currently for sale at Macklowe Gallery. Thanks to Macklowe for the information and lovely picture.

 

Vintage amethyst and diamond filigree ring.

True story: I thought I saw a girl on the metro the other day wearing a ring like this in aquamarine. I made a huge effort to end up next to her on the train, and when I succeeded, proceeded to be really awkward trying to get a look at her finger.

Luckily, I realized how creepy I was being and desisted. But the moral of the story is that this ring is pretty and sometimes jewelry-stalking makes me forget my manners.

Vintage amethyst and diamond filigree ring; at Lang Antiques.

Lang Antiques’ description: “A charming 18 karat white gold filigree ring from the early 20th century. A tiny diamond is actually mounted into the center of the amethyst, which is set atop delicate openwork shoulders and gallery.”

A vintage amethyst and diamond filigree ring.

I think the contrast of the light, airy filigree with that magnificent block of amethyst and the tiny diamond in its center is just magnificent.

This fabulous ring is currently for sale at Lang Antiques. All images and info are thanks to Lang.

A beautiful vintage amethyst and diamond filigree ring.

Van Cleef & Arpels sapphire & diamond chandelier earrings.

If you’re at all in the habit of looking at fabulous jewelry online, you’re familiar with Van Cleef & Arpels. If you’re not, I recommend you do yourself a favor and check them out, because it’s worth your while.

These earrings aren’t particularly innovative, but they are stunning. High-caliber gemstones in a bold, gorgeous setting. Perfect for your finer red carpets and galas.

Fabulous Van Cleef & Arpels sapphire & diamond chandelier earrings.

These were made in France, in the 1970’s. They’re set with four pear-shaped sapphires weighing approximately 18.15 total carats, accented by circular-cut and pear-shaped diamonds weighing approximately 17.23 total carats, mounted in 18k yellow gold, with clips and post backs. The drops are detachable so that the upper part of the earrings can be worn separately. They are signed Van Cleef & Arpels.

I think these would be amazing on a brunette. I volunteer.

These earrings are for sale at Betteridge, listing via 1stdibs. All images and info are thanks to Betteridge and 1stdibs.

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