What is a lavalier pendant?

A lavalier is a drop necklace featuring a suspended stone or ornament hanging from a smaller mounting section. This style gained immense popularity during the Edwardian period. Such pieces often incorporate delicate gold chains and feature materials like amethyst, peridot, and seed pearls arranged in flowing Art Nouveau motifs.

Were these necklaces worn with chains?

Many items retain their original matching curb link, uniform, or knife-edge chains complete with period clasps and dog clips. Others were paired with watch fobs or Albert chains repurposed for neckwear. Checking the linkage and metal purity marks helps confirm whether the chain is contemporary to the pendant drop.

What stones were popular in Victorian pieces?

Victorian jewellers favoured rich-coloured gemstones including amethysts, garnets, turquoise, and opals, frequently surrounded by halos of seed pearls. Foil backing was also utilised to enhance the depth and brilliance of stones. Enamel work in blue and red tones frequently accompanied these gems on puffy hearts and locket pendants.