Victorian Silver Collar

Soirées held during the Victorian period offered entertainment that could range from a most theatrical unwrapping of a recently uncovered Egyptian mummy to the introduction of a famous actress from the “legitimate stage”. No matter the content, Victorians were fascinated by the all the new technologies and inventions, by the plethora of discoveries by explorers and the scientific excavations of ancient sites in Egypt, Italy and Greece. These treasures and art from long ago inspired the artisans and jewelers of the 1800s to (re)create adornments incorporating not only ancient styles and motifs, but to attempt to discover anew the techniques associated with those artists of antiquity. This re-interpretation of jewelry styles from cultures long lost to time has come to be known as “archaeological revival” and was very much in vogue during the latter part of the 19th century.

Fine silver forms the basis for this Victorian fringe necklace. A bold design of alternating oval links of double banded silver are joined together. Grecian amphora urns suspended from the chain collar create a décolletage of fringe that gently embraces and lengthens the neck. Giving only the appearance of being substantive in weight, the urns have a hollow construction allowing for wear without discomfort. Smooth and exciting to both the eye and hand this is an antique collar with a most elegant drape and lavish feel.

Measures 16-1/8 in length by ¾ of an inch in width from the chain to the point of the urn (41.2 cm by 2 cm wide). In very good condition; three urns have minor indentions not visible when worn. A light patina adds depth; can be polished if desired. Most likely English in origin and dates to circa 1880.