Starlight : Edwardian Natural Blue Zircon Festoon Necklet in 9ct Gold

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A delicate, shimmering arrangement of natural blue zircon gemstones and fine chains of gold. This necklet dates to the Edwardian or early Art Deco period, circa 1910. The fashion of the time was for delicate jewels in pale colours, worn with dresses in lightweight fabrics and low necklines. This unusual arrangement of bright blue shimmering stones would have set a refined evening soiree ablaze.

Blue zircon is a natural gemstone with a scintillation (ie: sparkle factor) that exceeds that of diamonds. Not to be confused with manmade cubic zirconia, zircons are earth mined stones that are found in many colours, they were desirable choices for jewellery in the early decades of the 20th Century.

Festoon necklaces with swags of gold chain amongst a fringe of gemstones were popularised by Princess (then Queen) Alexandra, who adored layering her neck and décolletage with sparkles. They are often found set with moonstones and are highly prized by antique jewellery collectors. I have never seen another blue zircon example.

Manufacture: 
Nineteen faceted natural blue zircons, each in a slim 9ct gold bezel, linked to one another in this delicate 9ct gold necklet. The fine gold chain is composed of long and short links. Designed to sit at the base of the neckalong the collarbones, but can be worn with an extender for a looser fit.

The bolt ring has a 9ct hallmark. All components have been verified as 9ct gold by XRF test.
Weighs 7 grams.

The gemstones range in size and shape – the largest is cushion cut measuring approximately 7mm x 7.3mm x 3.9mm, the smallest is oval cut measuring 5.6mm x 4.9mm x 2.9mm. The combined carat weight is approximately 24 carats. The zircons have been verified as natural by an independent gemologist.

Size: 
The necklace is  38cm (15″) long.
The length of the section of necklace made of gemstones is 9.3cm (3 3/4″).
The centre drop measures 3cm (1 1/4″).

Condition:
Very good antique condition. The gemstones have small nibbles to the facets only visible under magnification, but mentioned here for transparency. One of the zircons has a visible dark needle inclusion (something gem nerds will love). The settings have been checked and secured. Ready for immediate wear.