- Description
- Specifications
A rare and lustrous strand of natural pearls from the late Victorian era, c1900! Very rarely do we see natural pearls, as many pearls on the market today have an internal bead which is part of the 'cultured' process, (aka cultured pearls!). However these pearls are of natural growth and not assisted in the oyster shell by a human. All the pearls in the strand have been examined with direct x ray radiography - the only sure scientific way to confirm natural internal growth! A pearl authentication certificate carried out by the Australian Gem Identification Laboratory (GSL) would accompany the strand upon purchase.
The delicate strand consists of 184 natural pearls and has been newly restrung. The pearls range in size from 1.70mm at the back to 4.50mm at the front. An outstanding lustre radiates from each pearl, the pearls are round to oval in shape and have a lovely creamy white hue. The natural pearl strand features a charming diamond-set clasp made of platinum and 15k gold backing and hook. The finely detailed clasp has hand- pierced sections to the top and sides and is finished with milgrain detail. There are five old swiss-cut diamonds scattered and bead-set in the platinum top, total estimated weight of the diamonds is 0.03 carats. A sturdy double lever hook attachment securely clicks into place. To the back of clasp bears stamps "CATANACH" "PLAT" "15". Catanach jewellers is a well-known manufacturing firm in Melbourne, Victoria, which started trade around 1874 and are still trading to this very day.
A short length at 37.50cm (14 3/4") and in the day this strand may have been for a young girl. However today the necklace could be worn by a woman as a choker-style and depending on your neck size it may sit just above the neck bone. The diamond-set clasp could be shown-off at the front or back. It may also make a lovely double-wrap bracelet.
A delicate and wonderful strand of natural pearls. A rare delicacy on the neckline!
