We like a lot this very classical and very chic necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels which is so emblematic of the return to glamour after the austerity imposed by World War II.
A platinum and diamond necklace, Van Cleef & Arpels, Paris 1948
The design relies on the interplay of baguettes, brilliant-cut and marquise-shaped diamonds, very much in the spirit of the 1930s – rigidly geometric, with very little visible metal.
The emphasis on the imposing fringe front would have complemented the structured necklines of the ‘New Look’ evening gowns of the era.
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Further details:
A diamond and platinum necklace with a graduating fringe of nineteen round, baguette and marquise diamonds suspended from a neck chain of baguette and brilliant-cut diamonds; mounted in platinum with French assay marks
– 19 marquise-cut diamonds, weighing 19.51 carats
– 140 round diamonds, weighing 16.41 carats
– 100 baguette-cut diamonds, weighing 30.34 carats
Signed Van Cleef & Arpels, stamped 62268 | The setting of each marquise diamond is engraved with the weight of the stone
Length: 15 inches
Certification:
– Gemmological Institute of America Diamond Grading Report no. 6137442415, dated May 27, 2011, stating that the 1.58 carat marquise brilliant is E colour and VS1 clarity
– Gemmological Institute of America Diamond Grading Report no. 2131442411, dated May 27, 2011, stating that the 1.28 carat oval brilliant is F colour and VS2 clarity
– Gemmological Institute of America Diamond Grading Report no. 2131442420, dated May 27, 2011, stating that the 1.71 carat oval brilliant is F colour and VS2 clarity
Literature:
cf. Vogue, September 15, 1946, p. 182 | cf. Van Cleef & Arpels Joailliers, c. 1948, no. 3
For further information on the diamond and platinum necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels: info@understanding-jewellery.com
