- Description
- Specifications
A beautiful marcasite 'bird of paradise' necklace from the mid 20th century! The piece is made of sterling silver and features bright marcasite accents encrusted into the bird design. The two larger birds have a 3-dimensional appearance and the attention to detail is evident. The flowing tail feathers, eyes, beak and leaves give the piece a real-life look. Each bird is perched up on a branch and cocked in opposite directions. Linked to either side are a pair of much smaller birds (perhaps the chicks!?). There is milgrain detail adding further flair. Attached to the bird pendant is a sterling silver trace necklace with bolt ring clasp. A beautiful patina remains on the piece adding further depth of character.
Stamped to the back of the piece is "Lega" and "No 514". Lega was a leading manufacturing jewellers in Melbourne, Australia which started trade in 1948. Lega made an extensive range of marcasite jewellery in the 1950's and was one of few firms producing marcasite jewellery in Australia for that period. The necklace can be seen in the book 'Australian Jewellers Gold & Silversmiths Makers & Marks' by K Cavill, G Cocks and J Grace, page 154.
A wonderfully charming vintage necklace for the woman with distinct taste or perhaps for the avid bird lover...