Antique Victorian 15CT 15K Solid Yellow Gold Book Chain, Collar Locket Chain, Egyptian Revival Cleopatra Fringe Statement Necklace

Temporary Hold for C. 

This 15CT bishop's mitre link collar chain along with its matching diamond set locket (available through a different listing) came straight from a recent England estate. The chain has a series of extremely ornate geometric design elements which can be easily associated with Archaeological Revival movement. An inner line of spaced convex rectangular links is interconnected with a line of convex triangular links, spaced and exceeded by lozenge shaped links with bright cut star decoration and outer beads, resembling bishops' miters, joined at the front by a neat bolt clasp ring suspending a 1.5" extension links in a similar design, another bolt clasp ring is connected at the end.

The extraordinary design and workmanship of this chain make it stand on its own, or play as the perfect accompaniment to your favorite locket or pendant. Most Victorian book chains of this type that we now find in the market are either missing the extension chain or have been altered. Finding a chain in such a pristine and original condition is like finding a needle in a haystack.

A video of this gorgeous necklace can be view on my Instagram (@memorystation2013) here.  

Measurement: 17.25 inches without the extension section and 18.75 inches with the extension section. Approx. 16mm link width

Metal: unmarked. The metal tests for an 18ct gold wash over a 15ct gold base. The use of high karat gold wash (normally 22k or 18K) is very typical for late 19th century jewelry. It involves dipping a karat gold item into a boiling mixture of acid, salt and water to create a rich smooth gold finish. This technique was used around 1870s to 1890s.

Weight: approx. 42.6 grams.

Circa 1880s.

Condition: very fine antique condition with wear and tarnish appropriate for its age. Please refer to the listing pictures for the general condition. Overall, a rare piece of period jewelry with a great investment value.

*Due to the value of this item the price reflects a domestic shipping cost of $40, which includes tracking and insurance. -International shipping uses Fed-Ex or UPS International Priority.

*Additional pictures/images are available in my store updates or Instagram*