AN IMPORTANT LATE 19TH CENTURY RIVIÈRE NECKLACE, CIRCA 1880 ...

Hammer

€14,000

AN IMPORTANT LATE 19TH CENTURY RIVIÈRE NECKLACE, CIRCA 1880 Centring a circular-cut citrine weighing approximately 40.00cts between graduated oval-shaped citrines, each within claw-setting and open-back, mounted in 9K gold, remaining citrines approximately 300.00cts total, length 58.3cm The design of the rivière necklace is one of timeless elegance and versatility. Without losing the essence of its style, the design of the rivière has been adapted to reflect an engagement with contemporary trends since its conception. Rivières were crafted with either linear or graduated stones, often featuring citrines, amethysts, and topazes, set in a row and linked together as seamlessly as possible. The single, unbroken line of gemstones captures and fragments light as it falls on the necklace, creating a visual quality similar to that when light falls on the surface of a river. The necklace has thus been imagined as a ‘river of light’ owing to this dynamic visual effect. Anna Wintour, the longstanding editor-in-chief of American Vogue, has established herself as one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry. There is no doubt that her personal style has become just as iconic as her editorial vision, and she is frequently seen wearing a radiant citrine necklace. Citrine, often called the “Merchant’s Stone,” is heralded as being symbolic of prosperity, wealth, and good fortune. The stones capture the warmth and brilliance of the sun, with their golden hue creating an inviting glow and drawing attention to the brilliance of each. Wintour often styles the rivière as a statement piece on its own, or layers multiple strands to create a look that is both timeless and modern. Reportedly, Wintour found her favourite necklace at British jeweller S.J. Phillips Ltd., made from Georgian gemstones. The style has also been recently endorsed by Sarah Jessica Parker, who wore multiple rivières layered together at the New York premier of “And Just Like That.” The elegance of the rivière affords it a timeless appeal that transcends specific periods over its history of design and keeps it relevant as a statement piece through to the styles of today. This stylistic legacy is reflected in its very design, with the unbroken strand of gemstones seen to be symbolic of notions of eternal time – and eternal style.