Antique 1790-1830 Georgian Period Steel Cut Flower Necklace
This is an absolutely incredible example of early Georgian steel cut jewelry. Circa 1790-1830. During this time sumptuary laws were still in place and people were not allowed to wear silver gold or diamonds, those items were for royalty. Candles were becoming more commonly used and people went out at night and steel cut jewelry resembled diamonds as it sparkled. Steel cut jewelry was made from melted horse shoe nails, each piece was hand cut and buffed to perfection before being screwed or riveted into the steel disk. The more facets each piece has the higher quality. Just look at the construction on this necklace and think about how long it would take you to make.This particular necklace is 16 inches in length, there are 3 studs missing, 2 near the clasp and 1 on center flower. Not many of these necklaces have survived, and this one is in remarkable condition. An absolute work of art. Others have sold for over $2500