Antique necklace. 18k gold, enamel, paste gems. Made in Normandy, France, mid 19th century.

Measurements: Hangs just under 15inches from clasp to bottom of drop. Excluding the drop, length is approx. 16 inches. Weighs 20.8 grams.

From the late 1700's these necklaces were typical of the Normandy area of France. They are called en escalavage / slave necklaces because of the swags of varying lengths in multiple rows that secure the plaques. Swags made of of gold links and chains of different shapes and patterns. In this necklace there are a total of 5 medallions or plaques. Two smaller near the top and 3 larger in a line form a particularly long drop than terminates in a gold charm, somewhat squished on one side. The plaques are spectacular and include very fine gold work, exquisite enameling in various colors, imitation pearls, sapphires (blue paste) and turquoise gems. Quality of the workmanship and design is exquisite and of the highest order. The necklace is utterly magnificent and we consider it a true museum piece. (one can compare many similar necklaces of this style in French museums and this one is better than, if not equal to most).

Marks: French 18k gold hallmarked.

Condition: as mentioned, the drop at the bottom of the pendant is dinged. It could be fixed, but we prefer to leave it as is. Otherwise, good condition with negligible wear commensurate with age. For further examples of this kind of necklace, see Claudette Joannis's book 'Bijoux des regions de France' and Bijoux et Orfevres en Haute Normandie au XIX siecle by Brigitte Bouret.