Georgian Flat Cut Garnet Pendant with Diamond

As if gazing into an aged fine wine, Georgian almandine garnets radiate with imperceptible shades of purple and deep red. Hold this at various angles and the gems glint with fire and light.

Each garnet is hand-cut with a few facets on each side and flat across the top. Set into rose gold, each side cups the stones. Foiling (tiny thin sheets of foil, often silver, gold or colored) is placed beneath the gems to add refraction. A shape rarely seen, the overall form is a geometric square. The center old-mine cut diamond adds drama to the total effect.

Thirty (30) fiery garnets dot the surface. Note the reverse with its bulbous and rounded gold cups and flatter mounts. The bale is original to the antique pendant and is encrusted with more garnets. For similar examples, you may wish to refer to page 49 of “Start to Collect Antique Jewellery” by John Benjamin.

Condition: In excellent condition; possibly the bezel has been re-secured or one stone has been replaced (one of the smallest and least noticeable); as expected, variations in the color of the garnets; a bottom rose gold hook which may have been added later and, if desired, is easily removed.

Measurements: 1-¾ inches (4.5 cm) in length by less than 2 inches (5 cm) in width. Weight of 10.7 grams.

Date & Origin: Circa 1820; most likely English in origin.