Edwardian Diamond Lavaliere
An edwardian diamond lavaliere suspends intricate gemstone drops from delicate chains, offering the quintessential elegance of early twentieth century design.
Edwardian Diamond Lavaliere
The edwardian diamond lavaliere is a pendant necklace featuring asymmetrical or symmetrical suspended drops, most frequently seen here in Edwardian and Art Nouveau styles. These pieces combine central diamonds with pearls, amethysts, aquramarines, or sapphires.
While Edwardian examples dominate the selection, related items from the Victorian, Art Deco, and nineteen-thirties periods also appear. Forms range from simple platinum pendants to detachable brooch combinations and fitted original boxes.
Yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, silver, and platinum form the metalwork foundations for these delicate pendant necklaces. The drop configuration remains the defining characteristic across all listed variations.
How they were made
Goldsmiths and platinum smiths utilised precious metals such as platinum, silver, and various carats of gold including fifteen carat and eighteen carat to construct intricate settings. Millegrain edges and fine wirework secure the diamonds and seed pearls.
Gemstones including old cut diamonds, natural pearls, and amethysts are hand set into openwork frames that balance structural strength with visual lightness. Many pieces incorporate articulated connections to allow fluid movement of the pendant drops.
Listings feature platinum, gold in various carats, and silver combined with diamonds, pearls, amethysts, aquramarines, and sapphires across multiple periods.
What varies in quality
The sophistication of the metalwork and the integration of the drop elements distinguish finer examples from standard production. Master jewellers achieved superior delicacy in pierced platinum and gold frames while maintaining structural integrity.
The selection of central stones, from natural pearls and large moonstones to calibrated diamonds and coloured gemstones, dictates the distinction of individual pieces. Original fitted boxes and convertible brooch mechanisms also influence the standing of a lavaliere.
Eduard Foehr
The Edwardian Diamond Lavaliere Glossary
- Lavaliere
- A pendant necklace featuring one or more drops suspended below the main setting. This style gained popularity during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
- Millegrain
- A technique involving a row of tiny raised metal beads along the edges of a setting. It creates a soft texture typical of Edwardian jewellery.
- Old cut
- A diamond facet arrangement predating the modern brilliant cut, characterised by a smaller table and higher crown. These stones exhibit a distinctive warm glow under candlelight.
- Seed pearl
- A very small natural or cultured pearl, often drilled and threaded onto silk or wire. They are frequently clustered in floral and organic motifs.
Edwardian Diamond Lavaliere: Frequently Asked Questions
What is an edwardian diamond lavaliere?
An edwardian diamond lavaliere is a pendant necklace featuring suspended gemstone drops created during the early twentieth century. These jewels typically combine diamonds with pearls or coloured stones in delicate precious metal settings.
They reflect the lighter, more graceful aesthetic that succeeded heavy Victorian jewellery, often utilising platinum and intricate openwork metal techniques.
How do I wear a lavaliere necklace?
Lavaliere necklaces sit centrally on the chest, suspended from fine precious metal chains that accentuate the movement of the drop. They pair well with low necklines where the articulated design remains visible.
Some pieces feature detachable mechanisms allowing the pendant section to convert into a brooch for versatile wear.
How do I tell Edwardian from Art Deco pieces?
Edwardian pieces feature flowing organic lines, floral motifs, millegrain detailing, and a preference for platinum and white gold combinations. Gemstones are frequently set in airy, lace-like openwork.
Art Deco items introduce strict geometric symmetry, sharp angles, and stylised patterns, shifting away from the soft curves of the preceding Edwardian and Art Nouveau eras.
Are these necklaces fragile?
While constructed from durable materials like platinum and gold, the fine wirework and delicate seed pearl settings require careful handling. Regular inspection of the connections prevents loss of suspended drops.
Storing the necklace flat or in its fitted original box protects the chain from kinks and safeguards the delicate settings.