Victorian Crescent Moon Sapphire & Pearl

Superb coloration and brilliance mark these sapphires as exceptional. Accompanying the lyrical crescent moon form, a diamond and a large golden natural pearl (untested but in process) makes a pendant necklace that is outstanding. All are set within 18k yellow gold mount and chain.

Fantastic sapphires of medium deep cobalt blue with electric blue highlights are dazzling. There are eleven (11) in all - oval cuts, round and almost square cuts. The estimated carat weight is 1.75 carats or a bit more.

Twenty (20) diamonds rest within just the moon and one below for total of twenty-one (21) diamonds. The stones in the moon are graduated in size and range from less than .01 to .05 carats for total of .35 carats. For the drop the gem is .12 points. Total estimated diamond weight is just less than 1/2 carat of diamonds.

Rarely do we see natural pearls, and particularly in this nearly perfect teardrop form. Luminescent golden hues with highlights of green, purple and blues makes the pearl a fit for a royal. The wonderful teardrop shape has very good luster and the nacre has a smooth and even finish with only tiny imperfections as expected due to the organic nature of the material.

Condition: Excellent with original fine chain.

Measurements: Chain measures 19-1/4 inches (48.9 cm) in length. Pendant is 1-1/8 inches (2.9 cm) in length by just less than 3/4 of an inch (1.8 cm) in width. Chain and pendant together weigh 6.5 grams.

Date: Victorian circa 1890.

Note: All gemstone weights are approximate since the stones were not removed from their mounts to preserve the integrity of the setting.

Historical Note: The crescent moon, as well as the star, was a popular motif in the 1880s and 1890s. Romance was back in vogue and the use of diamonds and precious gems was again the medium of expression rather than the previous decades' solo dependence on gold or on natural materials alone.