An exceptional original Victorian diamond pendant necklace, dating to circa the 1850s and set with approximately 2.00ct of natural antique diamonds across an intricate mixed-metal setting.

At the centre sits a beautiful old fancy cut heart-shaped diamond measuring approximately 6.5mm across and estimated at around 0.50ct on its own. The heart is complemented by an elegant old pear cut diamond drop suspended beneath, while a further 42 old cut round diamonds of graduating sizes decorate the body and bail of the pendant.

All of the diamonds are natural and original to the piece, retaining the individual proportions and softer brilliance associated with hand-cut antique stones. The central heart diamond is particularly attractive, appearing free from visible inclusions and assessed at approximately G/H colour, with the surrounding diamonds similarly well matched and bright for their age.

The pendant itself displays the mixed-metal construction characteristic of high-quality Victorian diamond jewellery, with a rose gold back and silver front setting. Both are unmarked but have been professionally tested. Silver was traditionally favoured for diamond settings during this period, allowing the stones to appear brighter while the gold backing offered warmth, strength and comfort against the skin.

Accompanying the pendant is an original handmade elongated-link platinum chain, professionally XRF tested despite being unmarked. Measuring approximately 17 inches / 430mm in length, it is finished with a spring-loaded bolt ring clasp.

A particularly fascinating detail is the hook-on bail and screw fitting to the reverse of the pendant. This suggests the jewel may originally have been designed as a convertible piece, allowing it to be adapted for wear as a brooch or pin as well as a pendant.

At approximately 45mm in total pendant length, the piece has a graceful yet impressive presence and represents an exceptional surviving example of Victorian diamond jewellery.

Key Specifications

Period: Victorian, Circa 1850s
Style: Diamond Lavallière / Drop Pendant Necklace
Pendant Construction: Rose Gold Back with Silver Front
Chain: Handmade Platinum Elongated-Link Chain
Metal Testing: Pendant and Chain Professionally Tested / XRF Tested
Gemstones: Natural Antique Diamonds
Estimated Total Diamond Weight: Approx. 2.00ct
Centre Stone: Old Fancy Cut Heart-Shaped Diamond
Estimated Centre Diamond Weight: Approx. 0.50ct
Centre Diamond Width: Approx. 6.5mm
Estimated Centre Diamond Colour: G/H
Additional Feature Stone: Old Pear Cut Diamond Drop
Additional Diamonds: 42 Old Cut Round Diamonds
Pendant Length: Approx. 45mm / 1⅞ inches
Chain Length: Approx. 17 inches / 430mm
Clasp: Spring-Loaded Bolt Ring
Bail: Hook-On Bail with Screw Fitting to Reverse
Originality: Original Victorian Construction and Natural Antique Diamonds

Condition

Presented in exceptional antique condition for a piece approaching two centuries old. The original natural diamonds remain securely set throughout, with the heart-shaped centre, pear-shaped drop and surrounding old cut diamonds all presenting beautifully.

The silver-fronted and rose gold-backed pendant remains structurally sound, while the handmade platinum chain and spring-loaded clasp are secure and ready for wear. Age-related character is naturally present and entirely consistent with an original Victorian jewel of this period.

A rare, beautifully preserved and highly collectable piece of Victorian fine jewellery, combining exceptional antique diamond cuts, original mixed-metal craftsmanship and wonderful versatility.