This Victorian rhodolite garnet pendant with natural seed-pearls is most likely of English origin, handcrafted in antique 15ct yellow gold and weighs 6.4g, measuring 2inches long, 29mm wide and 9mm deep. This authentic mid-Victorian pendant of naturalistic and architectural revival inspiration exposes a cinquefoil assemblage of vividly colored, antique-cut rhodolite garnets, resembling a stylized flower head, suspending a delicate rhodolite garnet drop mounted 'en tremblant' at the lower finial. The alluring 'petals' and the enchanting drop are cumulatively adorned with 7.79cts of bezel-set round antique-cut rhodolite garnets measuring 7.49mm in diameter, graded 'pinkish-red' and 'purplish-red' color. Embellished with a yellow gold corded wire rim, the vividly colored gemstones are surrounded by concentric borders of natural seed pearls measuring 2mm in diameter, graded 'cream' color. Exposed atop yellow gold galleries, the absorbing accoutrement of rhodolite garnets and color contrasting natural pearls is enhanced by Etruscan style granulation accents spacing the 'petals' and enhancing the arrowhead of the lower drop. An ovular yellow gold bale to support a chain concludes this fascinating 19th century Victorian rhodolite garnet pendant. The 15ct gold purity was legalized in England in 1854 together with '12ct' gold, both of which were declared not permissible as of 1932 in favor of 14k gold which was stamped '585' in Europe.

The name 'Rhodolite' is taken from the Greek 'Rho-Don' and 'Lithos' which literally translated means 'Rose Stone'. Possessing a color reminiscent of the rhododendron flower, this name was first used in the late 19th century to describe garnets discovered in North Carolina. Uniquely striking, Rhodolite is the varietal name for the naturally occurring blend of rose-pink Almandine and red Pyrope Garnets found in Macon County, North Carolina. While raspberry is the most prized color, Rhodolite is also found in shades of pink through lavender. From the svelte necklines of Abyssinian princesses to the powdered décolletages of Marie Antoinette, the captivating mystique of Garnets has made them a timeless symbol of feminine beauty. The imaginative lure of this ‘Queen of Gems’ intoxicates the senses. Garnet, from the Latin word for seed, ‘Granatus’, with a history spanning more than 5,000 years, was named due to its color similarity to pomegranate seeds. Pomegranate's associated symbolism with Garnets has been longstanding. Interestingly, several ancient jewelry items have been unearthed, studded with tiny red Garnets in cluster-like patterns reminiscent of pomegranates, which are closely associated with eternity in Greek mythology. Garnet is said to be the stone of romantic love and passion, enhancing sensuality and intimacy, awakening creativity and positive energy.

E915C3GP

Suggested Retail Price: $1,800.00 Your Price: $1,170.00 $1,000.00 Wholesale Price: $900.00